[VIDEO] Roger Federer Retiring From Tennis – Read His Announcement

Roger Federer, the 20-time Grand Slam champion, is retiring from the game.

“As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries,” Federer acknowledged in a press release Thursday. “I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.”

The Laver Cup — which takes place Friday, Sept. 23 by way of Sunday, Sept. 25 and can air on the Tennis Channel — will mark his ultimate Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) occasion.

“This is a bittersweet decision, because I will miss everything the tour has given me,” Federer wrote on Twitter. “But on the similar time, there’s a lot to rejoice. I take into account myself one of the crucial lucky individuals on Earth. I used to be given a particular expertise to play tennis, and I did it at a stage that I by no means imagined, for for much longer than I ever thought attainable. I used to be given a particular expertise to play tennis, and I did it at a stage that I by no means imagined, for for much longer than I ever thought attainable.

“I would like to especially thank my amazing wife Mirka, who has lived through every minute with me,” his assertion continued. “She has warmed me before finals, watched countless matches even while eight months pregnant, and has endured my goofy side on the road with my team for over 20 years. I also want to thank my four wonderful children for supporting me, always eager to explore new places and crating wonderful memories along the way. Seeing my family cheering me on. From the stands is a feeling I will cherish forever.”

Federer’s announcement comes weeks after fellow tennis nice Serena Williams introduced her personal retirement. She performed her ultimate U.S. Open match earlier this month.

Listen to Federer’s huge announcement beneath, then hit the feedback together with your reactions to his retirement.