American tennis player Shelby Rogers, a two-time major quarterfinalist, has decided to retire from the sport following the upcoming US Open. In a heartfelt post on social media, the 31-year-old athlete expressed that she would have continued playing if she were healthy, but unfortunately, a series of injuries and subsequent surgeries have taken a toll on her body. Rogers mentioned, “There really aren’t enough words for this moment, but I can confidently say that I have pushed my body to its limit.”
Throughout her career, Rogers reached No. 30 in the rankings in 2022 and had significant successes in Grand Slam tournaments. She made it to the quarterfinals of the US Open in 2020 and delivered a memorable performance at the 2021 tournament by defeating then-No. 1 Ashleigh Barty. This victory over Barty was a standout moment of the season and showcased Rogers’ talent and determination on the court.
Rogers is not only known for her skill on the tennis court but also for her likable personality. Her peers, including top-ranked players like Ashleigh Barty, have praised her character and sportsmanship. Barty mentioned, “I think Shelby, in a sense of her personality and her character, she’s certainly one of those for me.” Rogers’ positive attitude and friendly demeanor have made her a beloved figure in the tennis community.
Hailing from Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, Rogers began her professional career in 2010 and achieved several milestones over the years. She reached three WTA finals, with her most recent appearance at the Silicon Valley Classic in 2022. Rogers also secured victories over top-10 players such as Serena Williams and Simona Halep, showcasing her talent against some of the best in the sport.
As she prepares to participate in her last event at the US Open, Rogers expressed her excitement for one final appearance at her home Slam. Despite facing tough competition, including a matchup against fellow American Jessica Pegula in the opening round, Rogers is grateful for the support and experiences she has had throughout her career. She hopes to inspire the next generation of tennis players and continue to contribute to the growth of the sport even in retirement.
Following her retirement announcement, Shelby Rogers received an outpouring of support and well wishes from her current and former peers in the tennis world. Players like Madison Keys, Ons Jabeur, Bethanie Mattek-Sands, and Alize Cornet congratulated Rogers on her successful career and offered their best wishes for her future endeavors.
Shelby Rogers’ decision to retire from professional tennis marks the end of an era in her career. With an impressive list of accomplishments, memorable victories, and a positive impact on the sport, Rogers leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered by fans and fellow athletes alike. Her dedication, resilience, and sportsmanship have set an example for aspiring tennis players and have left a mark on the tennis world.
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