Simona Halep, the former World No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion, has stunned the tennis world by announcing her retirement from the sport.
The 33-year-old Romanian, who only recently returned from a two-year doping suspension, made the emotional declaration following her final match at the Transylvania Open in Cluj, Romania.
“I Don’t Know If It’s Joy or Sadness” – Halep Bids Farewell
Playing in front of her home crowd, Simona Halep suffered a brutal 1-6, 1-6 defeat against Italy’s Lucia Bronzetti.
However, the real bombshell dropped after the match when Halep, holding back tears, took the microphone and confirmed that this was the end of her professional career.
“Tonight, I don’t know if it’s with joy or sadness, I think both feelings are trying me, but I’m making this decision with my soul.”
“I’ve always been realistic with myself and with my body. Where I probably was, it’s very hard to get there, and I know what it means to get there.”
A hush fell over the arena as fans, many of whom had supported Halep through her highs and lows, processed the shocking revelation.
A Career of Triumphs and Tribulations
Halep’s storied career saw her rise to World No. 1, capturing the French Open title in 2018 before stunning Serena Williams in the 2019 Wimbledon final to claim her second major.
But her journey took a dark turn when she tested positive for roxadustat at the 2022 US Open, resulting in a four-year ban.
After a prolonged legal battle, the Court of Arbitration for Sport ruled in her favor, reducing her suspension and allowing her to return to competition in March 2024.
However, the road back was far from smooth. She failed to qualify for any Grand Slams in 2024, and despite moments of promise, her form never fully recovered.
“I Don’t Want to Cry, But…” – Halep’s Last Words on Court
As Halep stood in the spotlight for one last time, her voice wavered but remained firm.
“That’s why I wanted to come here today in Cluj to play in front of you and say goodbye.”
“Even though my performance wasn’t very good, it was still my soul, and I’m very glad you came.”
“I’ll wonder if I’ll come back again, but for now, it’s the last time I’ll play here, and I don’t want to cry. It’s a beautiful thing.”
She took a deep breath and smiled, reflecting on a career that saw her dominate the WTA Tour for years.
“I became World No. 1. I won Grand Slams. It’s all I ever wanted. Life goes on. There is life after tennis, and I hope that we will see each other again.”
“I’ll come to the tennis here as often as I can, and of course, I will continue to play—but to be competitive, it requires much more, and at this moment, [my career] is no longer.”
Simona Halep RETIRES After Emotional Farewell in Romania
What’s Next for Simona Halep? A Future Beyond Tennis
While she didn’t disclose immediate plans, Halep hinted at remaining involved in the sport in some capacity. Given her £32 million in career prize money, she has the financial security to explore other passions.
Some fans speculate she may transition into coaching, while others believe she could follow in the footsteps of retired players who have moved into commentary or sports administration.
Whatever the future holds, Simona Halep’s impact on tennis is undeniable. She leaves behind a legacy of resilience, dominance, and unwavering dedication to the sport she loved.
End of an Era – But Not the End of Her Story
With her final words, Halep waved to the Romanian crowd one last time.
“Thank you, everyone. I love you. I will never forget this moment.”
And just like that, a tennis icon walked off the court for the last time.
