A month and a half after announcing pregnancy, Barbora Strycova is officially hanging up her racquet. However, this is not the end. Since the pandemic ruined her plans to have a proper farewell in front of the audience, the Czech former doubles world No.1 plans to return for one last competition, most probably at her beloved Wimbledon or at a home tournament.
Announcing the news on social media, Strycova said that retirement feels weird, as tennis was the only world she knew.
Even through all the pain, tears, renunciation and sweat, all the great moments and victories were worth it! I never planned to end my career during a pandemic. However, some moments in life just can’t be planned and I am super excited for my next life role as a mom.
The 35-year-old Strycova has won two WTA titles in singles and 31 in doubles, including Wimbledon 2019 with Hsieh Su-Wei. The last tournament the Czech played was the 2021 Australian Open.
In late March, Strycova showed her baby bump. Her son is due in September. (photos: Jimmie48)
Li Na’s final match was a defeat at the hands of Strycova in the 3rd round of Wimbledon in 2014.