Roger Federer announces retirement, these pictures capture the tennis legend's glorious career achievements

Tennis legend Roger Federer shocked the world as he announced his decision to retire from the sport after Laver Cup 2022. The 41-year-old winner of 20 Grand Slam titles has been out of action since a quarter-final loss at 2021 Wimbledon before undergoing another bout of knee surgery. He won his first grand slam in 2003 when he won the Wimbledon title. Federer has since gone on to win 6 Australian Open, 1 French Open, 8 Wimbledon and 5 US Open titles. The Swiss legend has been struggling with a knee injury for a long time. "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I have worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career," he wrote in a long note that he shared on social media. "The Laver Cup next week will be my final ATP event. I will play more tennis in the future of course but just not in grand slams or on the tour. This is a bitter sweet decision because I will miss everything the tour has given me. But at the same time, there is so much to celebrate. I consider myself one of the most fortunate people on earth. I was given a special talent to play tennis, and I did it at a level that I never imagined, for much longer than I ever thought possible," he added. His announcement comes on the heels of the retirement of Serena Williams. Federer's decision leaves the sport starting at the beginning of the end of its golden era, a dreaded prospect for fans. Here, we bring you pictures that capture the tennis star's glorious career achievements.