Tennis legend Roger Federer has announced he will retire from the sport at the age of 41.
Federer has confirmed the last tournament of his illustrious career will be the Laver Cup in London, scheduled to be held at the O2 Arena next weekend.
The Swiss maestro - who won a total of 20 Grand Slams, the third highest men's tally of all time - retires as one of the greatest to ever play the game
'I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacity 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 recognise when it is time to end my competitive career.
'The Laver Cup in London next week 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.
'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.'
Federer thanked his wife, Mirka, his coaches, his fans and everyone who has been involved in his stellar career.
He also paid tribute to his fellow competitors, such as Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - who lead the all-time Grand Slam standings with 22 and 21, respectively.
'I was lucky enough to play so many epic matches that I will never forget,' Federer added in a video statement.
'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 has confirmed the last tournament of his illustrious career will be the Laver Cup in London, scheduled to be held at the O2 Arena next weekend.
The Swiss maestro - who won a total of 20 Grand Slams, the third highest men's tally of all time - retires as one of the greatest to ever play the game
'I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacity 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 recognise when it is time to end my competitive career.
'The Laver Cup in London next week 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.
'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.'
Federer thanked his wife, Mirka, his coaches, his fans and everyone who has been involved in his stellar career.
He also paid tribute to his fellow competitors, such as Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic - who lead the all-time Grand Slam standings with 22 and 21, respectively.
'I was lucky enough to play so many epic matches that I will never forget,' Federer added in a video statement.
'We battled fairly, with passion and intensity, and I always tried my best to respect the history of the game. I feel extremely grateful.
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