Romanian tennis star Simona Halep has announced her retirement following a first-round defeat at the Cluj tennis event in her hometown.
The two-time Grand Slam champion suffered a heavy 1-6, 1-6 loss to Italy’s Lucia Bronzetti.
The 33-year-old Halep also faced a career setback due to a doping suspension.
Speaking about her retirement, Halep stated, “I don’t know whether to announce this with happiness or sadness. Perhaps both. I have always been realistic with myself.”
She further added, “My body no longer allows me to reach the level I once played at. But I won’t cry, because I was World No. 1, won two Grand Slams, and achieved everything I dreamed of.”
