Czech tennis star Petra Kvitova to retire after 2025 US Open

By SABC Sport
19th June 2025

Two-time Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova has announced her retirement from professional tennis at the end of the 2025 season, capping a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades.

The 35-year-old Czech, a former world No. 2, will bid farewell to the sport after the US Open, her final Grand Slam.

Kvitova's legacy is defined by her 31 WTA Tour titles, including her iconic Wimbledon victories in 2011 over Maria Sharapova and in 2014 against Eugenie Bouchard.

She also reached the 2019 Australian Open final, falling to Naomi Osaka, and made French Open semifinals in 2012 and 2020. Her powerful left-handed game and relentless baseline play made her a fan favorite and a formidable opponent.

"Wimbledon holds my most cherished memories," Kvitova said in an emotional social media post. "Growing up in Fulnek, hitting balls with my father, I never imagined this life. Tennis taught me countless lessons, and I'm grateful for everything it's given me."

After welcoming her son, Petr, in summer 2024, Kvitova returned to the tour in February 2025 at the Austin Open, where she fell to Jodie Burrage in her opening match.

Her comeback has been challenging, with only one win in seven matches, including a first-round loss to Viktorija Golubic at Roland Garros. Despite these struggles, Kvitova earned a wildcard for her final Wimbledon, starting June 30, without needing her protected ranking.

"I'm excited to soak in the beauty of Wimbledon one last time," she added. "I plan to finish my career at the US Open. This decision brings a happy moment, and I'll leave with the biggest smile."

Tennis luminaries quickly paid tribute. Boris Becker, a three-time Wimbledon champion, wrote on Instagram, "What a lady you are, Petra! The game will miss your smile." Her longtime coach, Jiri Vanek, recently shared on X, "Petra's heart and fight on the court inspired us all. Coaching her has been an honor, and I know she'll shine in her final season."

Kvitova's six Billie Jean King Cup titles for the Czech Republic and her infectious positivity cemented her as a national hero. As she prepares for her last Wimbledon and US Open, fans worldwide will celebrate a career that blended grace, grit, and greatness.

Her final chapter begins on the grass courts she conquered twice, a fitting stage for one of tennis's brightest stars to take her bow.