Dementieva announces shock retirement

 

Originally published on: 29/10/10 17:01

Elena Dementieva, 29, announced her retirement from tennis on Friday, shortly after losing to Francesca Schiavone in her final round robin encounter at the WTA Championships in Doha.

Revealing the news in an on-court interview after her 6-4 6-2 defeat to the Italian, Dementieva said: “I would [like] to thank all the players for an amazing experience and some wonderful memories. It’s very emotional.

“I would like to thank all the people round the world that have supported me throughout my career and especially my fan club, you were always there for me.

“No matter winning or losing, I could always feel your support so thank you for your devotion.”

Dementieva, who reached a career high of No.3 last year, won 16 career singles titles during her 12-year career.

The Russian’s best season came in 2004, when she reached Grand Slam finals at both the US Open and Roland Garros. Arguably her greatest achievement came four years later in Beijing, when she defeated Dinara Safina to capture Olympic gold.

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