Italian tennis player Fabio Fognini announced his retirement from tennis at Wimbledon on Wednesday, marking the end of a vibrant career for one of the sport’s most colorful characters.
Before the Rome Masters in May, Fognini indicated that he intended to step away from the sport within the following year.
However, the 38-year-old Italian has decided to expedite that timeline, with his final match resulting in a five-set defeat to the defending Wimbledon champion, Carlos Alcaraz, in the first round at the All-England Club last week.
“Today is something official. I say goodbye to everybody,” Fognini told reporters.
Fognini achieved his highest ranking of ninth in the ATP standings back in 2019 and secured nine ATP Tour titles, including his sole Masters 1000 victory in Monte Carlo that same year.
He is perhaps best remembered for his dramatic five-set comeback win against Rafael Nadal at the 2015 US Open and his victory over then-World #1 Andy Murray in Rome in 2017.
Known for his erratic behaviour on court, Fognini openly referred to himself as a hothead. This reputation was solidified when he received a suspension from the 2017 US Open after directing insults at a female chair umpire.
In 2014, he faced a $27,500 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct during the Wimbledon tournament. He was also fined at Wimbledon in 2019 for implying that a bomb exploded at Wimbledon during a match.
“It was the perfect way to say goodbye to this sport. I was able to play in an era that probably is going to be the best era forever in the sport. I played against Roger, against Rafa, against Nole. Winning a Slam for me was impossible. I have to be honest.
“My best dream was finishing next year in Monte-Carlo. The main goal was that one because I was able to win the tournament. I’ve grown up there. But that’s it. It was not possible.” He said.
Currently ranked 138th, Fognini, whose best performance in a Grand Slam came in the quarterfinals at the 2011 French Open, mentioned that his struggles with injuries had significantly impacted his career.
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