Farewell, Li Na’s close friend officially retires!

Although the 2025 US Open has only just started, for certain players their journey has concluded, as Kvitova and Garcia finished their last matches at Flushing Meadows.

#Kvitova: The greatest world No. 2

In this US Open’s first round, Kvitova’s opponent was French player Parry. The Czech veteran was defeated decisively with a 1-6, 0-6 scoreline, marking the end of her career. After the match, the US Open organizers played a tribute video for her, and Kvitova tearfully delivered her retirement speech.

Although her highest world ranking was only No. 2, Kvitova won a total of 31 singles titles, including two Wimbledon singles championships and one WTA Finals title. Additionally, she claimed 9 WTA 1000-level titles, making the quality of her trophies quite impressive for the Czech star.

Turning professional in 2006 and becoming the first 90s-born player to win a Grand Slam in 2011, Kvitova amassed numerous titles. She was also well-known domestically for her close friendship with Li Na.

She officially returned to the tour in Austin this February, but evidently due to age and other factors, Kvitova struggled to regain form and rhythm, exiting in the first rounds at Austin, Indian Wells, Miami, and Madrid, before finally securing her first post-maternity win in Rome.

#Garcia: Former French No. 1

Garcia, who entered the US Open with a wildcard, also exited in the first round. After a tough three-set battle, she lost 4-6, 6-4, 3-6 to Rakhimova, ending her professional career just like Kvitova.

Reaching a career-high ranking of No. 4 and winning 11 singles titles including the WTA Finals, Garcia enjoyed a brilliant career. Moreover, she claimed two French Open women’s doubles titles, forming a strong partnership with Mladenovic, once a formidable force in doubles.

After her first-round loss, Garcia also gave a retirement speech organized by the tournament officials: “Thank you so much for coming to my last match, it truly means a lot. I’m also very grateful to the USTA for the special gift; it’s really unique.”

“Tennis has given me so much — wonderful emotions as well as countless tough moments. I can only say this sport shaped me into who I am today. I accept my decision to retire calmly... because I can no longer bear the suffering I endured there.”

Born in 1993, Garcia is three years younger than Kvitova. At not yet 32, the Frenchwoman is not even among the oldest on the WTA Tour, as many players over 30 are still competing.

So, what is your most lasting impression of Kvitova and Garcia?(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Barbie)