The tennis star announced his retirement in a heartfelt Instagram post, where he said that the last three years have presented him with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries, referring to three knee surgeries that he has undergone since 2020. "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," he said.
"I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career," his letter read.
"I would also like to thank my competitors on the court," Federer said, adding "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."
Federer's 20 Grand Slam titles rank third all time among men's players, with his tennis contemporaries Novak Djokovic coming in second with 21 titles and Rafael Nadal coming in first with 22 Grand Slam titles. The trio dominated men's tennis for the past two decades.
Federer, who has set many world records — including being the oldest No.1 at age 36, and remaining at the top of the rankings for a record 237 consecutive weeks — said that this was a bittersweet decision, because he will miss everything the tour has given him.
"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 a level that I never imagined, for much longer than I ever thought possible."