Steffi Graf, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, announced her retirement from professional tennis in 1999, citing a combination of factors that led to her decision. At the age of 30, Graf had already achieved remarkable success, securing 22 Grand Slam singles titles—an all-time record for a female player—and cementing her place in tennis history. However, the physical toll of her career, compounded by recurring injuries, particularly to her back and knee, had taken a significant impact on her performance.
Graf’s decision to retire was also influenced by the emotional strain of constant travel, the pressure to maintain her elite status, and a desire to focus on her personal life. After years of dominance in the sport, including a calendar-year Golden Slam in 1988, Graf sought a sense of peace away from the public eye. Her retirement marked the end of an era in women’s tennis, as she had redefined the game with her combination of power, precision, and mental toughness. Though her retirement came as a shock to many, it was clear that Graf had nothing left to prove, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the world of tennis.