Former world No 2 Anett Kontaveit is forced into early RETIREMENT, aged just 27, due to a debilitating back injury… with Wimbledon to be Estonian star’s last tournament
- Anett Kontaveit rose high as second in the world in her pomp in women’s tennis
- The Estonian, 27, needs to now retire due to a deteriorating back problem
- Wimbeldon will be Kontaveit’s final tournament playing on the WTA Tour
Former world No 2 Anett Kontaveit has announced she will retire following Wimbledon due to a condition in her back.
The 27-year-old Estonian said the issue – lumbar disc degeneration – ‘does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition’.
‘Today I am announcing that I am ending my career as a competitive athlete,’ she posted on Instagram.
‘After several doctor’s visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back. This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition.
‘Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field.’
Former world No 2 Anett Kontaveit has announced she will retire following Wimbledon
In an emotional post on Instagram, the Estonian explained the reasons behind her retirement
Kontaveit’s best result in a grand slam tournament was reaching the Australian Open quarter-finals in 2020.
‘Tennis has given and taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for that,’ she continued.
‘It has been important for me to bring the Estonian flag to the tennis courts and to be able to play in front of my supporters and fans all over the world.
‘I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player – to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon.’