Fabio Fognini has announced his retirement from professional tennis at a Wimbledon press conference this afternoon, following advice from John McEnroe to quit after his impressive first-round performance.
The 38-year-old Italian confirmed his decision to end his career at 1:30pm today at the All England Club, nine days after his thrilling five-set defeat to defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.
"I was here week ago probably, more than a week ago, and I left something. I think today is something then is official. I say goodbye to everybody," Fognini said during his farewell press conference.
The former world number nine had already indicated that 2025 would be his final season on tour.
John McEnroe had told Fabio Fognini to retire after his defeat to Carlos Alcaraz
GettyMcEnroe had urged the Italian to retire immediately after witnessing his remarkable display against Alcaraz on Centre Court.
"This was the perfect ending for Fognini," McEnroe said on the BBC.
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"I almost hope that [Fognini] doesn't play anymore because I'm not sure he can play any better than that."
The seven-time major singles champion was particularly impressed by Fognini's stamina during the match.
"Carlos looked more tired than Fognini even though there's a 16-year age gap! What in the hell is going on here?" McEnroe remarked.
He also noted that Fognini's wife, former tennis player Flavia Pennetta, believed it was time for her husband to spend more time at home with their children.
The match that prompted McEnroe's retirement advice saw Fognini push Alcaraz to the limit in a contest lasting four hours and 27 minutes.
The Italian veteran fell 7-5, 6-7(5), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 to the two-time reigning champion in what proved to be his final professional match.
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Fabio Fognini took Carlos Alcaraz all the way in a thrilling first-round at WimbledonReutersDespite the defeat, Fognini received a standing ovation from the Centre Court crowd as he departed emotionally.
Alcaraz himself praised his opponent's performance, saying in his on-court interview: "To be honest I don't know why it's his last Wimbledon because the level he has shown, he can still play three, four more years."
During his retirement announcement, Fognini expressed his desire to meet McEnroe before departing SW19.
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John McEnroe told Fabio Fognini to retire after his defeat to Carlos AlcarazPAWhen asked if McEnroe's comments influenced his decision, the veteran replied: "No. I would love.
"John is one of my best idol, for sure. Hope to met him today. I mean, I'm here until tomorrow, so hopefully I have a chance to meet him."
Fognini acknowledged that the decision had been on his mind for some time.
"It's something that was in my mind already. You guys know," he said, adding that he believed this was "the best way to say goodbye" to the sport after beginning his professional career in 2004.
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