Top 10 Players Who Retired From Professional Tennis in 2024

The year 2024 was a rollercoaster for tennis fans, with thrilling matches, unexpected upsets, and memorable moments. While the Paris Olympics added extra anticipation, where Novak Djokovic claimed the Olympic gold he had long sought, this year also marked the end of an era for many beloved players. Many stars bid farewell to the sport, leaving behind legacies that will be cherished for years to come.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 players who retired from professional tennis in 2024.

10. Shelby Rogers

Shelby Rogers, an American tennis player who played her final singles match at the US Open, lost to fellow American Jessica Pegula. At 31, she ended a 14-year career that saw her reach quarterfinals at the French Open and US Open. Rogers achieved a career-high ranking of World No. 30 in 2022 and will be remembered for her powerful ground hits and never-give-up attitude.

9. Steve Johnson

Steve Johnson, the 2016 Rio Olympics bronze medalist, retired in March. Over his career, he won four singles titles and two doubles titles, achieving a career-high singles ranking of World No. 21 in 2016. That same year, he partnered with Jack Sock to clinch the bronze medal in men’s doubles at the Olympics. Johnson’s uniformity and work ethic made him a fan favorite.

8. Alison Van Uytvanck

Belgium’s Alison Van Uytvanck retired in August, bringing an end to a prosperous career. She reached her first Grand Slam quarterfinal at the French Open in 2015 and achieved a career-best ranking of World No. 37 in 2018. Known for her unique playing style, Van Uytvanck made her mark on both hard and grass courts, with her Wimbledon performances standing out.

7. Ben McLachlan

Ben McLachlan, a former doubles specialist, retired in April 2024. Representing Japan since 2017, he reached the Australian Open semifinals in 2018 alongside Jan-Lennard Struff. McLachlan’s strategic gameplay and success in doubles earned him respect and appreciation on the professional tour.

6. Alize Cornet

Alize Cornet, a former World No. 11, said goodbye to professional tennis after a first-round exit at the French Open. Cornet’s career was featured by six singles titles and participation in four Olympics. Her breakthrough year came in 2009 when she reached her career-high ranking. Cornet’s determination and longevity earned her a loyal fan base.

5. Camila Giorgi

Italian tennis star Camila Giorgi played her final match at the Miami Open, where she lost to World No. 1 Iga Swiatek. A former Wimbledon quarterfinalist, Giorgi’s career included four singles titles and a career-high ranking of World No. 26. Known for her aggressive groundstroke game and stylish demeanor, Giorgi left a lasting impression on the tour.

4. Garbine Muguruza

Two-time Grand Slam champion Garbine Muguruza announced her retirement in April 2024. The former World No. 1 won the 2016 French Open and 2017 Wimbledon, reaching the peak of the sport. Nevertheless, injuries and discrepancies plagued her career in later years. Muguruza’s polished and powerful game made her one of the standout players of her generation.

3. Dominic Thiem

Austria’s Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, retired at his home tournament, the Vienna Open. Once regarded as one of the most propitious players in tennis, Thiem’s career was disrupted by a wrist injury in 2021. A two-time French Open finalist, Thiem’s powerful one-handed backhand and outstanding clay-court skills will be missed.

2. Andy Murray

Three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray retired after competing at the Paris Olympics. The Wimbledon Championships also hosted a special farewell ceremony for the former World No. 1, attended by tennis legends. Murray’s renowned career includes two Olympic gold medals and a notable ability to compete against the “Big Three.” His contributions to British tennis and the sport as a whole are unequaled.

1. Rafael Nadal

The legendary Rafael Nadal, a 22-time Grand Slam champion, announced his retirement at the end of 2024. His farewell came during the Davis Cup Finals in November. Injuries limited Nadal to just 19 matches this season, but his supremacy on clay, especially with 14 French Open titles, cements his place in tennis history. Nadal’s unyielding spirit and sportsmanship have inspired millions around the world.

The retirements of these players mark the end of an extraordinary chapter in tennis history. Their achievements, unique playing styles, and resilience to the sport will forever be remembered by fans. As we look forward to the future of tennis, their legacies will continue to inspire the next generation of players.

Cover Credits - Olympics.com