Eugenie Bouchard’s emotional tennis retirement marks the end of an era for the Canadian sensation. Her farewell at the National Bank Open was not just a final match but a poignant moment reflecting on a career that once saw her soar to the sport’s elite ranks.
The 31-year-old played her final competitive match, a hard-fought 6-2, 3-6, 6-4 loss to Belinda Bencic, in front of a home crowd that had witnessed her incredible journey. Despite the defeat, Bouchard displayed glimpses of the fiery determination that propelled her to world No. 5 in 2014, leaving fans with a lasting impression.
Her professional career, spanning 16 years, culminated in Montreal, a city deeply significant to her as her birthplace. Bouchard expressed a heartfelt sentiment, stating, “I’ve always had a feeling I would end my career here… An emotional moment. I think I just wanted a moment like this because my career deserved a moment like this. I really think I got it tonight, and I’m so grateful for that.”
During her retirement speech, the former Wimbledon finalist conveyed a readiness to embrace new challenges, emphasizing her desire to “do other things in life.” This openness hints at a versatile future beyond the tennis court, aligning with her recent diversification into other sports.
In recent years, Bouchard’s presence on the professional tennis circuit had become sporadic, as she increasingly turned her attention to the PPA Pickleball Tour. Here, she has carved out a new niche, currently holding the 12th rank in singles, showcasing her adaptability and continued athletic prowess.
The emotional weight of her decision became evident the day after her final match, as the Montreal star shared her raw feelings on social media. Taking to her story, she candidly wrote, “Woke up and can’t stop crying over here – seeing all your messages – thank you!” This public display of vulnerability resonated deeply with her dedicated fanbase and the broader sports community.
Tributes poured in from across the tennis world, including a notable message from British tennis star Emma Raducanu, the 2021 US Open winner. Raducanu extended her well-wishes, stating, “Thank you, Genie, loved watching you compete and play. Wish you all the best for your next chapter,” underscoring the respect Bouchard commanded among her peers.
Bouchard’s rapid ascent in 2014, which saw her become the first Canadian to play in a Grand Slam singles final at Wimbledon, captured global attention. Although she was defeated by Petra Kvitova, her performance at just 20 years old solidified her place in tennis history and inspired a generation of Canadian athletes.
Her journey, marked by both dazzling highs and challenging periods, leaves behind a legacy of resilience and groundbreaking achievement for Canadian tennis. As Eugenie Bouchard steps into a new chapter, her impact on the sport and the memories she created will undoubtedly endure.
