Tsitsipas revealed last year he considered retirement due to injury, while Azarenka’s absence from the Australian Open sparks rumors of her retirement this year.

With the new season underway, Tsitsipas kicked off with a victory over Japan’s Shintaro Mochizuki at the United Cup, winning 6-3, 6-4. Post-match, he revealed that during his absence from competition last year, injury issues led him to consider quitting the sport.

Tsitsipas’ difficulties are rooted in his persistent back injury. During the 2025 season, the Greek athlete was plagued by health setbacks, resulting in fluctuating form. He admitted, “My biggest concern was whether I could complete a match. I kept asking myself, ‘Can I play another match without pain?’” This doubt about his basic ability to compete forced him to reevaluate his career path.

The US Open marked a crucial turning point in Tsitsipas’ career. After a surprising early exit, he revealed, “I couldn’t even walk for two full days. That’s when you have to reconsider the future of your career.”

His physical condition prevented him from maintaining high-level training and matches, while mental fear intensified his struggles. He stated that he fought pain daily, which drained much of his energy. He pointed out, “Back injuries are devastating for tennis players, especially for serving and high-pressure shots that require stretching and twisting. If he can't find effective treatment, retiring early might be the wise choice.”

Former pro and current tennis commentator Jim Courier expressed, “It’s heartbreaking to see a young player like Tsitsipas consider retirement due to injury. Professional tennis takes a toll on the body beyond what most people imagine, but we have seen some players overcome similar challenges by adjusting their technique and training.”

Some fans commented, “As a single-handed player, the back endures great stress. Tsitsipas’ style is elegant but demands a lot physically. Hopefully, he can find a way to recover; the tennis world needs players with such distinctive skills.”

Besides Tsitsipas’ revelation, today the Australian Open organizers announced the final women’s singles wildcard goes to American star Serena Williams, meaning Bianca Andreescu and Belarusian Azarenka will miss this year’s Australian Open.

Former world No.1 Belarusian Azarenka has been inactive for nearly six months since the US Open last year. She played only 11 tournaments in 2025, reaching the third round in her last event at the US Open before taking a break. More importantly, after missing this year’s Australian Open, she has not shared any upcoming schedule on social media. Belarusian media reports suggest 2026 might be her final year on tour.

Azarenka was once one of the dominant figures in women’s tennis. She won the Australian Open singles title twice, in 2012 and 2013, and reached the peak of her career by becoming world No.1 in 2012. Alongside contemporaries like Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova, she helped define a golden era of women’s tennis, earning global respect with her powerful baseline play and fierce determination.

Now 36 years old, Azarenka has competed professionally for nearly two decades. Naturally, her recovery ability and motivation can no longer match her younger years. The long periods away from competition, rigorous training, and constant travel take a heavy toll on any athlete’s body and mind.

Tennis analyst Mark Peterson commented, “Azarenka’s situation reflects a reality in professional tennis — even the greatest champions cannot defy time. Her career has been brilliant enough, and retirement would be a dignified choice.”

Fans also wrote on social media, “Azarenka is one of my favorite female players, and her fighting spirit is admirable. If she decides to retire, I will be very sad but completely understand her decision.”

Other fans expressed, “If Azarenka retires, it symbolizes the end of an era in women’s tennis. She is among the last active veterans on the tour, and her departure will make the WTA’s generational transition more apparent.”

Some commentators reflected from an athlete welfare perspective: “Whether she continues or retires, the health and happiness of athletes should always come first. We enjoy watching them compete but should not impose our expectations on their choices.”

In a 2022 interview, Azarenka said, “Tennis has given me everything but has also taken a lot. At some point, you have to ask yourself if the price you pay is still worth it.” This statement was interpreted by the media as a hint that she might consider retirement in the coming years, so if she announces retirement this year, it would not be a surprise.(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Lu Xiaotian)