TORONTO — Former Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard tearfully announced her retirement from professional tennis on Monday, admitting she "can't stop crying" as she reflected on her 12-year career. The 30-year-old Canadian, once ranked No. 5 in the world, shared an emotional video on social media, marking the end of an era for one of tennis’ most recognizable stars.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Bouchard burst onto the scene in 2014, reaching the semifinals of the Australian Open and French Open before her historic run to the Wimbledon final, where she lost to Petra Kvitova. That year, she became the first Canadian to reach a Grand Slam singles final and peaked at a career-high ranking of No. 5. However, injuries and inconsistent form plagued her career afterward.
In her retirement announcement, Bouchard reflected on the emotional toll of her journey: "Tennis gave me some of the best moments of my life, but it also took so much from me. The pressure, the expectations—it was overwhelming at times. Today, I feel both relief and sadness."
The Struggles Behind the Smiles
Despite her early success, Bouchard faced numerous challenges, including:
- A concussion suffered at the 2015 US Open, which led to a high-profile lawsuit against the USTA
- A dramatic rankings drop, falling outside the top 100 by 2018
- Multiple coaching changes and public scrutiny over her form
Bouchard admitted in her video, "I put everything into this sport, and when things didn’t go as planned, it broke me a little every time. I’ve spent years trying to rebuild my confidence."
Fan Reactions and Legacy
The tennis world responded with an outpouring of support. Former rival Simona Halep tweeted, "Genie, you inspired so many with your fighting spirit. Wishing you happiness in this next chapter." Fans also shared memories of her electrifying 2014 Wimbledon run, where she became a global sensation.
Bouchard’s impact extended beyond the court. She was one of the first tennis players to embrace social media, amassing millions of followers. Sponsorships with brands like Nike and Coca-Cola cemented her status as a marketable star, even during her struggles.
What’s Next for Bouchard?
While she hasn’t revealed specific plans, Bouchard hinted at exploring broadcasting and business ventures. "I’m excited to step away from the pressure and find new passions. Maybe I’ll even try acting!" she joked in her video.
A Final Message to Fans
Closing her announcement, Bouchard thanked supporters through tears: "To everyone who cheered for me, even during the tough years—thank you. You made the journey worth it. I’ll miss this more than words can say."
Though her career didn’t unfold as many predicted, Bouchard’s influence on Canadian tennis remains undeniable. As she steps away, her legacy as a trailblazer for the next generation—including current stars like Leylah Fernandez—is secure.