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Milos Raonic Announces Retirement from Professional Tennis
1/12/2026, 11:33:39 AM
Milos Raonic's Career and Retirement Announcement
Milos Raonic, a prominent figure in Canadian tennis and former world No. 3, announced his retirement from professional tennis at the age of 35 through an emotional social media post on January 11, 2026. Raonic, who has not competed since mid-2024 due to ongoing foot and Achilles tendon injuries, expressed that "the time has come" to move on from his playing career. He reflected on his journey, stating, "This is a moment you know will come one day, but somehow you never feel ready for it. This is as ready as I will ever be. Tennis has been my love and obsession for most of my life."
Raonic's career, which began in 2008, was marked by significant achievements, including reaching the final of the 2016 Wimbledon Championships, where he was defeated by Andy Murray. He also reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open that same year and won eight ATP singles titles throughout his career, amassing over $20 million in prize money.
Career Highlights and Impact on Canadian Tennis
Raonic's influence on Canadian tennis is profound. He became the first Canadian man to reach a Grand Slam singles final and was instrumental in elevating Canada's profile in men's tennis. His powerful serve earned him the nickname "Missile," and he consistently ranked among the top players in the world, peaking at No. 3 in November 2016. His career record stands at 383 wins and 184 losses, with notable victories against top players, including a memorable semi-final win over Roger Federer at Wimbledon in 2016.
Despite his successes, Raonic's career was hampered by injuries that began in his early twenties, affecting his foot, quadriceps, and hamstring. These injuries ultimately limited his ability to compete consistently, with his last match occurring at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he lost in the first round to Dominik Koepfer.
Official Statements and Future Aspirations
In his retirement announcement, Raonic expressed gratitude towards his fans, coaches, and the tennis community, acknowledging the support he received throughout his career. He emphasized that while he is stepping away from competition, he is not slowing down, stating, "There is so much more life to live, and I am as motivated and hungry as I was in 2011, when I broke through on tour."
Criticism and Opposition
While Raonic's retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in Canadian tennis, some critics argue that his career could have been even more illustrious had it not been for the injuries that plagued him. They contend that his potential was never fully realized, particularly in the context of competing against the "Big Three" of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The time has come, I am retiring from tennis. This is a moment you know will come one day, but somehow you never feel ready for it. This is as ready as I will ever be. Tennis has been my love and obsession for most of my life,” — Milos Raonic
- “I have been the luckiest person to get to live out and fulfill my dreams.” — Milos Raonic
- “A big part of my tennis journey has been the incredible people I have been fortunate to meet all over the world,” — Milos Raonic
Milos Raonic's retirement signifies not only the end of his competitive career but also the closing of a pivotal era in Canadian tennis, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
