After her quarterfinal exit at the 2024 Olympic Games, Angelique Kerber reflected on her performance, expressing that her remarkable run in the tournament was one of the most memorable moments of her career. Despite not advancing further, Kerber found immense pride and satisfaction in her achievements at the Games, viewing her journey as a significant highlight in her illustrious tennis career. Her comments suggest a deep appreciation for the Olympic experience and the level of play she was able to demonstrate.
German tennis star Angelique Kerber announced that the Paris Olympics would be her final professional tournament, marking the end of a distinguished career. Throughout her time on the tour, Kerber won three Grand Slam titles and reached the pinnacle of the sport by claiming the World No. 1 ranking.
After taking a break in 2023 to give birth to her first child, the 36-year-old made a remarkable return to the WTA Tour, capping off her career with some memorable victories. Her farewell at the Paris Olympics was particularly significant, as she reflected on her journey and celebrated her achievements, making it a fitting conclusion to a career filled with remarkable highs.
Former World No. 1 Angelique Kerber exceeded her own expectations at the Paris Olympic Games, delivering a standout performance that saw her defeat four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka and 2021 US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez on her way to the quarterfinals. Despite her impressive run, Kerber’s Olympic journey ended with a hard-fought loss to World No. 7 Qinwen Zheng in a marathon match that ended with a score of 7-4(4), 6-4, 6-7(8).Although she was unable to advance further, Kerber leaves Paris with a sense of fulfillment and no regrets about concluding her career on such a high note. Her victories against top opponents and her resilience in the quarterfinal match underscore her lasting legacy in the sport.
After her final match at the Paris Olympics, Angelique Kerber reflected on the emotional experience, saying:
“There are a lot of emotions. I gave everything I could on court, and I think this is what counts for me, especially coming here, playing great matches, feeling that I can still play with the top players and having this decision in my hands, to have no injuries.
I cannot stop better than here, playing for your country, playing on Chatrier, such a great crowd, and I just tried my best. I tried everything I could. I had good tournaments, but of course, I also had tough first rounds, and it was not easy to find the rhythm.”
Kerber’s words convey the depth of her emotions as she concluded her career on a significant stage, representing her country and competing at a high level against top players. Her sense of fulfillment and pride in her efforts reflect a fitting and graceful end to a remarkable career.
Angelique Kerber further reflected on her final tournament, emphasizing the personal significance of her experience:
“But at the end, for me, it was always important to enjoy it, to come here to feel the atmosphere, the fans, and seeing that I can play at a high level again. This, for me personally, I think is the biggest success I had.
Having a match like this as my last match, showing also that I never give up and I tried everything until the end, means a lot. I will miss the fans, the emotions, the competition for sure, and traveling around the world. There’s never a right time for making such a decision, but for me, it was the best timing.
“Kerber’s words highlight the joy and fulfillment she found in her final tournament, cherishing the atmosphere and the ability to compete at a high level one last time. Her determination to fight until the end, even in her last match, is a testament to the resilience and spirit that defined her career. Though she acknowledges that the decision to retire is never easy, she feels at peace with her timing, leaving the sport on her own terms.