Angelique Kerber Announces Retirement After Paris Olympics

PARIS (AP) — Three-time Grand Slam champion Angelique Kerber has confirmed her retirement from professional tennis, set to take place after the Paris Olympics in 2024. The 36-year-old German athlete, who has achieved major victories at every Grand Slam except the French Open, will compete in her final tournament on the iconic clay courts of Roland Garros. In her first-round match, she will face four-time major winner Naomi Osaka of Japan. Kerber shared her sentiments on Instagram, stating, “Before the Olympics begin, I can already say that I will never forget Paris 2024, because it will be my last professional tournament as a tennis player.” She reiterated her decision during a brief appearance on stage following the Olympic tennis draw, marking a poignant moment in her illustrious career. The German star's accolades include winning the Australian Open and U.S. Open in 2016, the same year she ascended to the No. 1 ranking and earned a silver medal in singles at the Rio de Janeiro Games. She added Wimbledon to her collection in 2018, solidifying her status as one of the sport's elite players. Reflecting on her journey, Kerber expressed gratitude, stating, “Paris 2024 will mark the finish line of the most incredible journey I could have ever dreamed of.” International Tennis Federation president David Haggerty commended Kerber’s contributions to tennis, highlighting her impressive record and her role in representing Germany on the international stage. He noted her Olympic debut in London 2012 and the significance of her silver medal in Rio, emphasizing the fitting conclusion to her career at the upcoming Paris Games.