KRISTEN’S KOURT: Any Roddick to Retire After US Open

Written by: Staff on 30th August 2012

KRISTEN'S KOURT: Any Roddick to Retire After US Open

epa03372723 Andy Roddick of the US hits a return to Rhyne Williams of the US during their match on the second day of the 2012 US Open Tennis Championship at the USTA National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, USA, 28 August 2012. The US Open runs through Sunday 09 September 2012. EPA/JASON SZENES |

By Kristen Tracy

In a shocking turn of events Andy Roddick announced today, his 3oth birthday, that the 2012 US Open would be his final tournament as a professional player.

Many had a feeling the end was nearing for the American, currently ranked 22 in the world; but no one thought it would be this soon with such little notice. Amidst a media room that was both shocked and saddened, Roddick talked about how he decided the time was right.

“I just feel like it’s time,” he said. “I don’t know that I’m healthy enough or committed enough to go another year. I’ve always wanted to, in a perfect world, finish at this event…I’ve thought all year that I would know when I got to this tournament. When I was playing my first round, I knew.”

Roddick, who won the US Open in 2003, will leave the sport as easily one of the most beloved and favorite players to ever play the game. He’s more than just a powerful serve and a killer forehand. Those who’ve had the pleasure of meeting and spending any amount of time with Andy know that he’s funny, caring, and charming as heck.

So many people were surprised by today’s announcement, including yours truly. The announcement of Roddick’s retirement stirred up a few mixed emotions for me. When I was first introduced to the game of tennis about 12 years ago, Andy Roddick was one of the first players I had the pleasure of seeing play. Over the years, I have been a huge supporter of his – and it was always his matches that made a tournament exciting for me. The game of tennis has always evoked a positive emotion in me. Even after the worst day, turning on the tv to watch any kind of match seemed to make it all better. It sounds bizarre, I know. But Andy Roddick has meant something to more than just American tennis. He’s made a difference in the lives of many – mine included. And while there’s plenty of rising stars being primed to uphold the reputation of American tennis, the game just won’t be the same without him.

With his seemingly perfect comedic timing and wit, does anyone else think that Andy is going to make the perfect tennis commentator?? I personally can’t wait for that day.

Follow Kristen on Twitter! @KristensKourt

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Topics: Andy Roddick, Andy Roddick retiring, Kristen Tracy, Sports, Tennis News, US Open 2012