Wimbledon champion, 35, announces retirement with just over a week until tournament to go

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Jack Otway

By Jack Otway


Published: 19/06/2025

- 15:45

Petra Kvitova has won two titles at the All England Club

Petra Kvitova has announced she will be retiring from tennis after this year's Wimbledon.

The Czech star has won two singles titles at the All England Club, with those triumphs coming in 2011 and 2014.


Kvitova, who is a member, has been handed a wildcard for this year's event after falling down to 572nd in the world rankings.

She gave birth to son Petr back in 2024, which explains why she's fallen behind so many of her rivals.

Petra Kvitova has announced she will be retiring from tennis after this year's Wimbledon.

Petra Kvitova has announced she will be retiring from tennis after this year's Wimbledon

PA

Now, Kvitova has taken to Instagram to announce her imminent retirement - while also reflecting on everything she's achieved throughout her career.

“Growing up in my hometown of Fulnek and hitting the first tennis balls with my father on the local courts, I never imagined becoming a professional tennis player," she stated.

“Being able to travel the world, and playing in the most beautiful stadiums around the world.

“And sure enough… somehow all of that became a reality, and so much more.

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“I’ve been privileged to reach incredible heights over the past 19 years since becoming a professional tennis player.

“From winning my two Wimbledon Championships, bringing home six Billie Jean King Cup trophies for the Czech Republic, reaching the world No.2 ranking and so much more.

“I’ve accomplished more than I could have ever imagined and I’m so grateful to everything that tennis has given me all these years.

“It has taught me countless lessons, not only on the court or in the gym, but also in life.

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“I’d never be whom I am today without this beautiful sport and everything it has given me both on and off the court.

“As will all phases in life, there comes a day that it is time for a new chapter, and that time for me has come now.

“I therefore wanted to share with you that 2025 is my last season on tour as a professional.

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“I’m excited and very much looking forward to soaking in the beauty of playing The Championships, Wimbledon one more time, a place that holds the most cherished memories in my career for me.

“And while I’m not entirely sure yet what my hardcourt swing in the US will look like, I’m intending to finish my active playing career at the US Open in New York later this summer.

“While no such decision is ever easy to make, for me this is a happy moment!

Petra Kvitova

Petra Kvitova poses with her first Wimbledon trophy, which was won back in 2011

PA

“I’ll leave the sport with the biggest smile on my face – the same smile you’ve seen from me on and off court throughout my whole career.

“Through all these years, I’m so incredibly thankful for the unwavering support of my family, my closest friends, my team, and all the incredible fans that have always supported me around the world over all these years.

“I could not have asked or wished for anything more – tennis has given me everything I have today, and I will continue to be forever grateful to this beautiful sport that I love.”