American tennis star John Isner, who holds the record for the longest match in history, announced that he will retire after the US Open next week in New York saying, “Time to lace ’em up for the last time.”
Isner received a wild card invitation to play in the final Grand Slam of the year and said he felt “it was the right way to go” in a statement posted on Instagram.
“I can’t think of a better way to go out than to compete in New York City,” said the tennis ace. “I have participated in the US Open for each of the 17 years of my career and I am looking forward to playing my last match in front of American fans in Flushing Meadows.”
Known for his powerful serve, Isner has captured 16 singles titles and served 14,411 aces, an ATP record, since he made his ATP debut in 2007.
Isner made tennis history with his marathon match against France’s Nicolas Mahut at Wimbledon in 2010.
The match lasted 11 hours and five minutes over three days before Isner prevailed in five sets.
It surpassed the longest match by more than four hours.
Isner, 38, reached his career-best ranking of No. 8 after he reached the Wimbledon semifinals in 2018, playing the fourth longest tennis match in history.
The father of four admitted that life after tennis will be a “challenge,” but praised his wife, Madison, and parents for the emotional tribute that covered the most memorable moments of his career.
“I’m not going to sit here and pretend this transition is going to be easy, because it’s not going to be,” Isner said. “For a large part of these past 20+ years, all I’ve known is tennis.”
“Waking up every morning with the goal of becoming a better player is something I’ve always been proud of, and now I have to channel my energy elsewhere. It’s a challenge I’m looking forward to,” he added.
Isner has compiled 488 wins as a singles competitor and 151 wins in doubles.
The Georgia Bulldogs alum represented the US at the London Olympics in 2012, where he reached the quarterfinals.
“I consider myself fortunate to have developed many relationships that have led me to where I am today,” Isner said. “The people who have been in my corner professionally and personally have played a big role in shaping me as a player, but more importantly, as a person.”
Isner’s opponent for his final run has yet to be determined.
The US Open will reveal its main draw on Thursday at noon.
“Amazing career,” said fellow tennis star Coco Gauff on Instagram. “Hope you’re well.”
“My twinnnnn! I will miss you,” former No. 8-ranked player Diego Schwartzman posted.
Former tennis player and current broadcaster Patrick McEnroe praised Isner on Twitter, “Unbelievable ride big man. You gave it your all.â€