Soderling Announces Retirement

Robin Soderling, formerly No. 4 in the Emirates ATP Rankings, has retired from professional tennis. Soderling announced his retirement via Twitter on Wednesday.

Thank u so much for all your kind words.So sad I won’t play professional tennis again, but reading all ur msgs makes me feel a lot better❤️

— Robin Söderling (@RSoderling) December 23, 2015

The Tibro, Sweden native had not taken part in an ATP World Tour event since 2011 due to mononucleosis. In his 10 years on tour, Soderling compiled a 310-170 match record and captured 10 ATP World Tour titles.

A big server equally comfortable on fast indoor courts and on outdoor clay, he enjoyed his best results in Paris, France. At Roland Garros, he made history by handing Rafael Nadal his first loss at the event in 2009 and upset Roger Federer on the same court in 2010. Later that year, Soderling secured his lone ATP World Tour Masters 1000 title at the BNP Paribas Masters.

The 31 year old ended his ATP World Tour career with a win. Soderling entered the 2011 Bastad tournament as the top seed and defeated David Ferrer in the final before being forced to the sidelines.

Magnus Norman, who coached Soderling to consecutive Roland Garros finals, and Christian Lindell, who was in the draw for his final tournament, took to Twitter to pay homage to their compatriot:

I always get emotionally touched when athletes are forced to leave their career. Congrats to a great tennis career @RSoderling

— Magnus Norman (@normansweden) December 23, 2015

Congrats @RSoderling for an amazing career.You will be missed! Iam so lucky that i got the chance to practice with you many times.

— Christian Lindell (@chlindell91) December 23, 2015

And wishing you best of luck in whatever comes in the future! @RSoderling #top4 #2RGfinals #10ATPtitles #harderstrokesever

— Christian Lindell (@chlindell91) December 23, 2015