Ivo Karlovic confirmed on Wednesday that his ‘unorthodox’ career as a tennis player has come to an end after not playing on the Tour since October 2021.
The Croatian issued a statement on social media platform X announcing his official retirement from the sport at the age of 44. His last professional match was at the 2021 BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells where he reached the second round of qualifying. His last Grand Slam appearance was at the US Open that year where he lost in the first round to Andrey Rublev.
“Some of you have noticed that it’s been a while since I played a tournament and still ask me on a daily basis if and when I’ll be returning to the tour. I’m sorry to disappoint, but with this letter, I want to make it official and finally announce my retirement.” Karlovic wrote.
Born in Zagreb, Karlovic won eight ATP titles and peaked at a ranking high of 14th in 2008. He reached the quarter-finals of Wimbledon in 2009 and then the following year reached the semi-finals of the doubles tournament at the US Open. Overall, he recorded 21 wins over top 10 players during his career.
“I’ve had a very gratifying, unorthodox and long career coming from extremely humble beginnings, especially for a tennis player. Croatia was a very different country in the 80s and 90s when I was growing up, and I’m very proud of my accomplishments and what I’ve been able to overcome,” he reflected.
“I’d like to thank all the coaches and people who were involved in and contributed to my development as a tennis player. Without you this fortunate journey would not have been possible.
“My family provided tremendous support and I love them immensely. I’m looking forward to continuing to spend time with them doing things that are important to us and that fulfill us.”
Karlovic is best known for his blistering serve. On the ATP Tour, he produced a record 13,728 aces, playing 801 tiebreaks in 717 matches. According to the ATP official website, he holds ace records for matches played on ATP Tour (45), Australian Open (75), French Open (55), US Open (61) and Davis Cup (78).
Affectionately known by fans as ‘Dr Ivo,’ the Croat has hinted that he is not completely stepping away from tennis.
“I will stay close to tennis and try to share my knowledge and all of the incredible experiences on tour with new generations of tennis players. The journey continues and the focus gets redirected. I am grateful.” He said.
Karlovic’s announcement comes almost 23 years after he made his ATP Tour debut in October 2001 at the Tashkent Open.
