Eight-time Slam champion admits 2022 Australian Open ‘will probably be the end’
A WTA stalwart and Slam champion across singles, doubles and mixed doubles admits she will likely end her career at the Australian Open.
Sam Stosur has had a career spanning more than 20 years, a singles Slam title, four doubles Slam titles and three mixed doubles Slam titles.
She peaked at world number four in singles and world number one in doubles, winning her latest Slam alongside Zhang Shuai at the 2021 US Open in the women’s doubles.
Now, the 37-year-old has revealed that it is likely she will bow out at the Australian open this January.
“Chances are it probably will be the last time,” Stosur said according to The West Australian.
“I’ve just done my first day back training today. I’m seeing how things go.
“I had a little run around in preparation and lead-up to a big summer hopefully.
“My knees are a bit sore, but I actually hit pretty well considering I’ve had two weeks off.
“I always love getting back on court. Pre-seasons can be a bit brutal, but I’ve done enough of them now that it doesn’t take too long to get back into it.”
While stosur currently sits at a lowly singles ranking of 380th in the world, she is 16th in doubles and recently qualified fifth with Zhang Shuai for the WTA Finals in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The Brisbane native would join wheelchair tennis legend Dylan Alcott in retiring at the 2022 Australian Open should she choose to do so.
Like many others, Stosur is concerned for the wellbeing of her doubles partner’s compatriot Peng Shuai, describing her situation as “terrible”.
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