London, July 18, 2025** — In a moment that has left fans and the sporting world stunned and emotional, British tennis sensation **Emma Raducanu** has officially announced her departure from professional tennis. Speaking at a packed press conference earlier today, the 21-year-old star, best known for her historic 2021 US Open victory, shared her decision with grace, poise, and unmistakable heartache.
Dressed in a simple white jacket and sitting behind a pair of microphones, Raducanu offered a heartfelt message to her fans, teammates, and the sport that changed her life. Her voice trembled slightly as she began:
> “This isn’t goodbye to tennis forever… but for now, I need to step away. This has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made.”
The announcement follows months of speculation about her future, with repeated injuries, mental health concerns, and intense public scrutiny reportedly weighing heavily on the young athlete.
“I gave everything I had, every ounce of myself,” she said. “But my body and mind need time to heal, and I want to rediscover the joy in life beyond the court. Tennis will always be a part of me — it’s just not all of me.”
Raducanu, who became a global phenomenon after winning the 2021 US Open as a qualifier — without dropping a single set — has since struggled to maintain consistency amid overwhelming pressure and media attention. Still, her courage, resilience, and poise made her one of the most beloved figures in British sport.
Today’s announcement was met with stunned silence in the room, followed by a slow rise to a standing ovation from journalists, fellow athletes, and officials present.
### A Rollercoaster Journey
Raducanu’s career has been nothing short of meteoric and turbulent. After her overnight rise to superstardom in 2021, she was thrust into the international spotlight — with brand endorsements, high-profile appearances, and intense on-court expectations. She endured several coaching changes, injury setbacks, and social media criticism, all while navigating the pressure of being a young woman in a spotlight not many could bear.
Despite the challenges, she maintained an authentic and mature presence, always gracious in victory and grounded in defeat.
### A Nation’s Pride
Tributes poured in within minutes of her announcement.
Andy Murray tweeted:
> “You made history and inspired a new generation. Proud of you always.”
Billie Jean King wrote:
> “Emma, you played with heart and carried yourself with grace. Take all the time you need — we’ll be here when you’re ready.”
Fans outside the press room gathered holding signs reading *“Thank You, Emma”* and *“Forever Our Champion.”*
### What’s Next for Raducanu?
While she hasn’t confirmed retirement, Raducanu emphasized this was an “open-ended pause.” She plans to focus on education, health, and personal passions outside of tennis.
“There’s a whole world I haven’t had time to explore,” she said with a smile. “I want to travel, study, maybe write… and most importantly, just be a 21-year-old without a racquet in hand.”
Though the announcement marks the end of a chapter, it may not be the final page in Raducanu’s tennis journey. But even if she never returns, her impact is eternal.
### A Legacy Beyond the Scoreboard
Raducanu’s rise changed the face of British tennis. She inspired young girls to dream boldly, carried the hopes of a nation, and proved that age, background, or rank don’t define greatness — heart does.
As she left the stage today, she paused, looked back at the crowd with tears in her eyes, and said softly:
> “Thank you for believing in me — even when I didn’t.”
The applause that followed wasn’t just for a tennis star — it was for a young woman who captured the world’s imagination and walked away with her head held high.