Som retires with coaching on mind
NEW DELHI: Ravaged by injuries, India’s star singles player Somdev Devvarman announced his retirement from professional tennis on Sunday, bringing an abrupt end to what was once a promising career.
“Starting 2017 on a new note, retiring from pro tennis. Thanks to everyone for the love and support over the years. #newyearnewbeginnings,” Somdev said on his Twitter page.
The 31-year-old’s career was hampered by a recurring shoulder injury in 2012. He recovered to stage a comeback but he had been missing from action without any specified reason for some time now. There is speculation that he might take to coaching .
Somdev was India’s star singles player since he first broke into the scene in 2008. A regular in India’s Davis Cup squad, Somdev appeared in 14 rubbers and played a crucial role in India reaching the World Group. He was conferred the Arjuna award in 2011.
He said it was right time for him to quit international tennis since the passion with which he used to play was “dying” and he felt he will not be able to play his best tennis.
Known for his baseline slugfest and sheer doggedness with which he played his game, Somdev gave India many memorable wins in the Davis Cup.
“I last played a match in Indian Wells in March (2015) andafterthatIhadachat with my people. I pretty much decided at that time that it was time to stop. I have read people saying I was injury plagued but it was not about that.
I wanted to play for right reasons. Playing for me was always super fun and passion, that was dying or slowing