VIDEO: Simona Halep Bids Farewell: A Champion’s Journey Comes to an End

Simona Halep, the former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion, announced her retirement from professional tennis on February 4, 2025, following a first-round loss at the Transylvania Open in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The decision marks the end of an illustrious 19-year career that saw Halep rise to the pinnacle of women’s tennis and become a national icon in Romania.

After her match today at the Transylvania Open Simona Halep announced her retirement. pic.twitter.com/pjej7EAgs6

— Romanian Tennis (@WTARomania) February 4, 2025

Halep, 33, addressed her home crowd after the match, stating,

I wanted to come here today in Cluj to play in front of you and say goodbye on the tennis court. I don’t want to cry. It’s a beautiful thing. I became world No.1; I won Grand Slams. It’s all I wanted. Life goes on.

Simona Halep on her withdraw from tennis in Cluj, Romania

Despite her emotional farewell, Halep expressed peace with her decision, citing physical limitations as a key factor in stepping away from competitive tennis.

A Storied Career

Halep’s career is one for the history books. She claimed 24 WTA singles titles, including two Grand Slam victories: the French Open in 2018 and Wimbledon in 2019. Her Wimbledon triumph was particularly memorable as she defeated Serena Williams in a dominant final performance. Halep also reached three additional Grand Slam finals and held the world No. 1 ranking for 64 weeks, finishing as year-end No. 1 in 2017 and 2018.

Known for her consistency and adaptability across all surfaces, Halep was a fixture in the WTA Top 10 for seven consecutive years (2014–2020). She also earned over $40 million in prize money during her career, ranking third all-time in earnings among women’s players.

Challenges and Resilience

Halep’s retirement follows a tumultuous period marked by injuries and controversy. In 2022, she faced a doping suspension after testing positive for roxadustat, a banned substance. While she denied intentional doping and successfully appealed to reduce her ban from four years to nine months, the ordeal disrupted her career momentum. Her comeback attempt in 2024 was marred by injuries and lackluster results, culminating in her decision to retire.

Legacy

Simona Halep leaves a legacy as one of Romania’s most significant sports figures. Her achievements brought pride to her nation and inspired countless young athletes. Despite recent setbacks, Halep will be remembered for her determination, skill, and grace on the court.

Halep expressed hope for happiness beyond tennis as she steps into retirement: “There is life after tennis… Of course, I will continue to play tennis recreationally, but being competitive requires much more.”