Feliciano Lopez admits that deciding to end his pro tennis career in 2023 was a difficult decision.
On January 1st, 41-year-old Lopez announced he would be retiring from tennis in 2023.
In his retirement announcement, Lopez said he would play in a few selected tournaments in 2023.
This week, Lopez kicked off his first tournament of the season in Acapulco.
“Since I decided this is going to be my last year on Tour, it’s been a little bit difficult because it’s something that you don’t want to do, because I love what I do. I have a passion for tennis. Even though I know this is my last year, I wish I could continue playing and it’s a little bit sad. But on the other hand, I have to do it because I’m 41 years old and this is not going to be forever; I understand,” Lopez told the ATP website.
Lopez ended his losing streak
Lopez, who entered Acapulco via a wildcard, was on a 17-match losing streak on the main level before beating Chris Eubanks 7-6 (3) 6-4 in the Acapuclo first round.
Knowing that his career won’t end with a big losing streak, Lopez feels relieved.
“It’s been a while since I won my last ATP match. To be honest, I had this in mind because last year was difficult for me. I couldn’t win any matches on Tour, even though I played only a few tournaments. But still it’s something that I had in mind and it was kind of a relief moment when I finally won my match yesterday,” Lopez admitted.
Lopez is also scheduled to play in at least two more tournaments in 2023 – Barcelona and Mallorca.
Recently, Lopez confirmed that he asked for a main draw wildcard at the Queen’s Club.
Lopez is a two-time champion at the Queen’s Club and he would like to end his pro career at the prestigious grass-court tournament.
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