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US Open: Petra Kvitova's Final Match Ends in Defeat

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Petra Kvitova
Petra Kvitova bids emotional farewell to tennis at US Open


Petra Kvitova's illustrious tennis career comes to an end with a first-round loss at the US Open, marking a poignant moment in the sport.


“I'm very proud of how I handled the pressure, how many times I have been in the top 10. It was special...”


Petra Kvitova bid a tearful farewell to professional tennis after her first-round defeat at the US Open, expressing pride in her remarkable 19-year career. The 35-year-old Czech tennis star, who announced her retirement would coincide with the end of the year's final major in New York, reflected on her journey with gratitude. Kvitova's decision to retire follows her return to competition earlier this season after a 17-month maternity break.




Kvitova's impressive career boasts numerous highlights, including two Wimbledon titles in 2011 and 2014, six Billie Jean King Cup titles for Czechia, and a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. She reached a career-high ranking of No. 2 in 2011 and earned eight Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Awards for her conduct on and off the court. Despite facing challenges, including a violent home invasion in 2016 that left her with severe left-hand injuries, Kvitova demonstrated remarkable resilience, returning to the court and winning the Miami title in 2023.




Highlights:

  • Grand Slam Titles: 2 Wimbledon titles (2011, 2014)
  • Billie Jean King Cup: 6 titles with Czechia
  • Olympic Medal: Bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics
  • Career-High Ranking: No. 2 in 2011
  • Sportsmanship Awards: 8 Karen Krantzcke Sportsmanship Awards


Kvitova's final tournament appearances included Wimbledon, where she was granted a wildcard entry, and the US Open, where she ultimately bowed out in the first round to Diane Parry with a score of 6-1, 6-0.


Petra Kvitova's illustrious tennis career came to an emotional end with a first-round loss to Diane Parry at the US Open. The Czech tennis star, known for her powerful left-handed strokes, was visibly moved as she shed tears during an on-court ceremony honoring her achievements. Kvitova's legacy extends beyond her impressive 31 career titles, including two Wimbledon championships in 2011 and 2014, where she showcased her skill and dominance on grass courts.


Kvitova's remarkable journey is also marked by her courageous return to tennis after a life-threatening hand injury sustained during a home robbery in 2016. Displaying her trademark resilience, Kvitova made a successful comeback, further cementing her reputation as one of the sport's toughest competitors. Throughout her career, Kvitova held a highest ranking of world number two and inspired fans with her aggressive baseline game and clutch performances under pressure.


Career Highlights:

  • Grand Slam Titles: 2 (Wimbledon: 2011, 2014)
  • WTA Titles: 31
  • Highest Ranking: World number two
  • Fed Cup Dominance: 6 titles with the Czech Republic
  • Resilience: Overcame serious hand injury and COVID-19 challenges to conclude her career on her own terms.


“I think I would be proudest of many things, especially the mental side. All the seasons, pretty long seasons. I was okay to handle it even with some injuries and sickness,” Kvitova told reporters later.


“I'm very proud of how I handled the pressure, how many times I have been in the top 10. It was special. I was never world number one, but those two Grand Slam wins are above the world number one ranking.


“That's how I'm going to take it, especially the Wimbledon ones. I'm proud of many things.”




Petra Kvitova reflected on her decision to participate in the US Open despite battling COVID-19 three weeks prior, saying, “I wanted to be playing here, to finish the season in a Grand Slam and not because the COVID caught me.” She expressed relief and satisfaction with her choice, adding, “I'm very glad (I did).” This determination to end her career on her own terms speaks to Kvitova's resilience and dedication to the sport.


Kvitova's COVID-19 diagnosis had taken a toll on her physical condition, affecting her performance in her final match against Diane Parry. Nevertheless, she prioritized concluding her career in a Grand Slam tournament, showcasing her commitment to wrapping up her illustrious career with dignity and pride.



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