Sorana Cirstea has confirmed the date she will officially retire from tennis after two decades in the sport.
Cirstea made her debut in 2006 and her career has brought her three career titles as well as several Grand Slam highlights.
The Romanian has reached two Grand Slam quarterfinals, at Roland Garros in 2009 and the US Open in 2023.
Although the star is currently still ranked inside the top 50 of the WTA rankings, she has confirmed when she plans to retire.
Sorana Cirstea confirms when she will retire from tennis
On Instagram, the Romanian wrote: “Next year it will be my 20th year on tour as a professional tennis player.
“I never expected to compete for such a long time, but the last couple of years have been my happiest on court and they just kept me going.
“That being said, I have now decided that 2026 will be my last year on tour. When you love something so much, it’s not easy to say “good bye”. For now though this is not a farewell, but a ‘see you one more time’.
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“I still have lots of things I want to improve, I have goals and ambitions, so I hope to be able to achieve some of them next year and finish this wonderful career on a high note and on my terms.
“I adore tennis and I am very fortunate and grateful for everything it has given me and taught me. This sport has allowed a 4 year old girl, holding the racket for the first time, live her dream. A beautiful dream where all the sacrifices have been so worth it.
“I look forward to seeing all my fans, friends and loved ones next to the court for one last dance around the world. Thank you Tennis, I will forever be indebted to you. See you in 2026 and thank you all for your unconditional support!”
Cirstea has proved she still belongs on the WTA Tour in 2025, particularly by reaching the Japan Open semi-final recently, but it’s admirable that she’s going out on her own terms.
Sorana Cirstea is not the only player retiring in 2026
There have been several retirements from tennis at the end of the season, including doubles legend Rohan Bopanna.
Pedro Cachin and Dennis Novak have also confirmed their careers will end with the 2025 season, but Cirstea will not be the only star to retire at the end of 2026.
Tennis legend Gael Monfils has confirmed he will play one more season, bringing an end to his 22-year career.
Monfils has expressed an interest at retiring at the Paris Masters, his home tournament which now takes place at La Defense Arena.
