Anett Kontaveit to retire after Wimbledon due to degenerative back condition

Anett Kontaveit has confirmed she will retire from tennis following this year's Wimbledon, despite being only 27 years old.

The former second-ranked player in the world and six-time WTA Tour winner revealed she has a back condition that does not allow her to continue to train and compete the way she needs to.

Kontaveit has lumbar disc degeneration, which can cause pain, numbness and pins and needles.

"Today I am announcing that I am ending my career as a competitive athlete," Kontaveit said on social media.

"After several doctor's visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back. This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition. Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field.

"Tennis has given and taught me a lot, and I am very grateful for that. It has been important for me to bring the Estonian flag to the tennis courts and to be able to play in front of my supporters and fans all over the world.

"I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player - to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon. Thank you everyone for your continuous support."

While never a major force in the Grand Slams, she did reach the quarter-finals of the 2020 Australian Open. Her best career run came at the tail end of 2021 when she won 26 of 28 matches on the way to making the final of the WTA Finals.