By Chris Oddo | @TheFanChild | Wednesday February 21, 2024
Ace maven Ivo Karlovic, the previous World No.14 who stands No.2 on the ATP’s all-time ace checklist, has made his retirement from the ATP Tour official. He had been out of motion since Indian Wells in 2021.
The man who holds single-match ace data for the Australian Open (75), Roland Garros (55), US Open (61) and Davis Cup (career-high 78), posted a message on social media on Thursday.
“Some of you have noticed that it’s been a while since I played a tournament and still ask me on a daily basis if and when I’ll be returning to the tour. I’m sorry to disappoint, but with this letter, I want to make it official and finally announce my retirement,” he wrote.
“I’ve had a very gratifying, unorthodox and long career coming from extremely humble beginnings, especially for a tennis player. Croatia was a very different country in the 80s and 90s when I was growing up, and I’m very proud of my accomplishments and what I’ve been able to overcome.”
Dear followers and mates,
I hope this publish finds you all in good spirits and with a robust backhand!
Some of you’ve observed that it’s been some time since I performed a match and nonetheless ask me each day if and after I’ll be returning to the tour. I’m sorry to disappoint,…
— ivo karlovic (@ivokarlovic) February 21, 2024
Karlovic, presently 44, was an eight-time ATP title winner, and reached the quarterfinals at Wimbledon in 2009.
“I’d like to thank all the coaches and people who were involved in and contributed to my development as a tennis player,” he wrote. “Without you this fortunate journey would not have been possible. My family provided tremendous support and I love them immensely. I’m looking forward to continuing to spend time with them doing things that are important to us and that fulfill us.
“To all of you who were fans and supporters throughout the years, thank you for being a part of my journey. I love you all and I hope to see you again. I will stay close to tennis and try to share my knowledge and all of the incredible experiences on tour with new generations of tennis players. The journey continues and the focus gets redirected. I am grateful.”
Source: www.tennisnow.com
