Roger Federer has announced that he will retire after the Laver Cup next week in London

A tennis icon and a legend of the sport, Roger Federer, who won 20 Grand Slam singles broke the news yesterday in a lengthy statement on an Instagram post.

A knee injury meant he has not played a match since losing at last year’s Wimbledon, although many still hoped he would come back for one last major farewell at his favorite grasscourt event.

“As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” Federer said in a statement posted on social media.

Roger Federer admits age has finally caught up with him

“I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old.

“I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it’s time to end my competitive career. The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour.”

“The Laver Cup next week in London will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future, of course, but just not in Grand Slams or on the tour,” he added.

Federer said that he considers himself one of the most fortunate people on Earth

“This is a bittersweet decision because I will miss everything the tour has given me. But at the same time, there is so much to celebrate. I consider myself one of the most fortunate people on Earth. I was given a special talent to play tennis, and I did it at a level that I never imagined, for much longer than I ever thought possible,” the Tennis star further added.

“Finally, to the game of tennis: I love you and will never leave you,” the 41-year-old concluded in his farewell note.

“I would also like to thank my competitors on the court. I was lucky enough to play so many epic matches that I will never forget. We battled fairly, with passion and intensity, and I always tried my best to respect the history of the game. I feel extremely grateful. We pushed each other, and together we took tennis to new levels.”

Sport & Tennis Stars React to Federer’s Retirement

Former India cricket team captain Mithali Raj reacted to Federer’s retirement news, and said, “Grace and elegance personified, the title of GOAT suits you well Roger Federer. Thank you for all the memories, champ.”

Spanish tennis player Carlos Alcaraz said, “Roger has been one of my idols and a source of inspiration!? Thank you for everything you have done fo our sport! I still want to play with you! Wish you all the luck in the world for what comes next!”

Sania Mirza also shared a photo with Federer with a caption that said, “Will tennis ever be the same?”

“What a career Roger Federer. Truly greatest of all times,” former Pakistani cricketer Shoaib Akhtar said.

“Farewell to the GOAT! Congratulations on an immense career Roger Federer,” Indian cricketer Surya Kumar Yadav tweeted.

Rafael Nadal has paid a moving tribute to him in a tweet

“Dear Roger, my friend, and rival. I wish this day would have never come. It’s a sad day for me personally and for sports around the world. It’s been a pleasure but also an honor and privilege to share all these years with you, living so many amazing moments on and off the court,” Rafael Nadal wrote in a tweet.

“We will have many more moments to share together in the future, there are still lots of things to do together, we know that.  For now, I truly wish you all the happiness with your wife, Mirka, your kids, and your family, and enjoy what’s ahead of you. I’ll see you in London @LaverCup.”

For more sports and entertainment news, follow us on Twitter and Instagram