I’M Leaving and i promise never to return: Elena Rybakina announce after she…

Elena Rybakina, the 2022 Wimbledon champion and former world number four, has announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 25. This decision comes after a series of challenges, including health issues and a high-profile coaching split, marking a significant turning point in her career.

Rybakina’s rise in the tennis world was meteoric. She clinched her first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2022, defeating Ons Jabeur in a thrilling final. Her powerful serve and aggressive baseline play quickly made her a formidable presence on the WTA tour. In 2023, she reached the Australian Open final and secured titles at prestigious tournaments like Indian Wells and Rome, solidifying her status among the elite players.

However, the 2024 season presented unforeseen challenges. Despite a strong start with victories in Brisbane, Abu Dhabi, and Stuttgart, Rybakina’s momentum was disrupted by health concerns. She withdrew from several key tournaments, including the U.S. Open, citing a persistent lower back injury. Her withdrawal from the U.S. Open was particularly disheartening, as she had been a top contender for the title. citeturn0news17

Compounding her health struggles was a significant change in her coaching team. In August 2024, just days before the U.S. Open, Rybakina parted ways with her long-time coach, Stefano Vukov. Reports indicated that the split was due to psychological issues arising from Vukov’s repeated insults and aggressive behavior. This coaching change, combined with her health issues, contributed to a challenging period in her career. citeturn0news16

Despite efforts to recover and return to form, Rybakina’s struggles persisted. She withdrew from tournaments in Beijing and Wuhan, aiming to recuperate before the WTA Finals in Riyadh. Unfortunately, her performance at the Finals was below expectations, leading to a reassessment of her career trajectory. citeturn0news19

In her retirement announcement, Rybakina expressed gratitude to her fans, coaches, and family for their unwavering support throughout her career. She acknowledged the physical and mental toll of professional tennis and emphasized the importance of prioritizing her health and well-being. While she did not specify her future plans, Rybakina hinted at staying connected to the sport in some capacity, possibly through coaching or mentorship roles.

Rybakina’s departure from professional tennis is a poignant reminder of the challenges athletes face beyond the spotlight. Her journey underscores the importance of mental and physical health in sustaining a sports career. As fans and the tennis community come to terms with her retirement, her legacy as a Grand Slam champion and her contributions to the sport will be fondly remembered.

Elena Rybakina’s story serves as both an inspiration and a cautionary tale, highlighting the highs and lows of professional sports. Her decision to retire at a young age reflects a deep understanding of personal well-being over professional accolades. The tennis world bids her farewell, wishing her success and happiness in her future endeavors.

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