Iga Swiatek is wishing Anett Kontaveit all the best in her post-tennis life after the Estonian tennis star shockingly announced her retirement at the age of 27. Kontaveit, who achieved a career-high ranking of No 2 last year, was recently diagnosed with lumbar disc degeneration in her back.
Earlier this year, Kontaveit revealed she was told by the doctors that her back would never be the same. “So sorry to read that. Wishing you all the best Anett,” Swiatek tweeted.
Swiatek wishes Kontaveit all the best
After starting her 2023 season with a 2-4 record, Kontaveit announced a break from tennis in February to address her back injury.
Kontaveit returned to action in April, and after playing a couple of matches, decided to retire after Wimbledon. “Hi friends, Today I am announcing that I am ending my career as a competitive athlete. 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. Tennis has given and taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for that.
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,” Kontaveit announced.
Kontaveit enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2021, when she won four WTA titles and broke into the top-10. Last year, Kontaveit reached a career-high ranking of No 2 in the world. But then a back injury appeared and Kontaveit’s results and form went downhill.
