Simona Halep, the celebrated Romanian tennis star and two-time Grand Slam champion, has officially announced her retirement from professional tennis at the age of 33. In an emotional statement following her first-round loss to Lucia Bronzetti at the Transylvania Open in Cluj-Napoca, Halep revealed that she had come to terms with her decision.
“I am at peace with this choice,” Halep said. “My body and mind can no longer bear that level of strain. It is time to close this chapter.” The 33-year-old added that, after over a decade of intense professional tennis, she now seeks rest and acknowledges that she can no longer give 100% to the sport, a realization that has led to her decision to retire.
Also Read: Rafael Nadal Announces Retirement from Professional Tennis
With 24 titles to her name, including prestigious Grand Slam victories at Roland Garros in 2018 and Wimbledon in 2019, Halep’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. She was ranked world No. 1 for 64 weeks, making her one of the sport’s most dominant figures.
Halep’s retirement marks the end of a journey that began in 2010, during which she earned over $40 million in prize money. However, her career was also marred by a doping scandal in 2020, resulting in a temporary suspension. Although her ban was later reduced, Halep’s brief return to the sport in 2024 did not mirror her previous dominance, culminating in her last match at the Transylvania Open.
The tennis world has already begun honoring Halep, with Roland Garros, where she triumphed in 2018, extending their well wishes to the legendary player. “We wish you all the best for the next chapter of your life, Simona,” they posted on social media.
