'Tennis gave me the world' - 2-time Slam finalist announces ATP retirement

May 3, 2022

‘Tennis gave me the world’ – Two-time Slam finalist announces shock ATP retirement

Former US Open and Wimbledon finalist Kevin Anderson has announced his retirement from the ATP tour at the age of 35.

The news comes after the South African played his final ATP tour match at the Miami Masters last month, losing to Argentinian youngster Juan Manuel Cerundolo in the second round 6-7 (7-9), 6-3, 3-6.

Currently ranked 107th in the world, the former ATP number five bows out with 354 wins from 607 tour level matches over a more than 14-year pro career.

Anderson said in a statement on Twitter: “i don’t remember a time in my life when I wasn’t playing tennis.

“I started on the journey 30 years ago when my Dad put a racket in my hands and told me if I was willing to work hard, I could be one of the best players in the world.

“Since then, tennis carried me far beyond my roots in Johannesburg, South Africa and truly gave me the world.”

He went on to thank his parents, brother and wife, with whom he is excited to raise their daughter.

Anderson added his old university, his coaches, his sponsors and all the fans who watched him among those to whom he is so grateful.

A note for everyone who has been a part of my tennis journey. (1-4/5) pic.twitter.com/atueKpob84
— Kevin Anderson (@KAndersonATP) May 3, 2022

The South African won seven tour titles in his career and peaked at world number five back in July 2018 after reaching the second of his two Slam finals at that year’s Wimbledon.

He was only denied a Major title by two GOAT contenders, being Rafael Nadal at the 2017 US Open and Novak Djokovic at Wimbledon 2018.

Anderson ended his statement; “I gave it my best.”