Marin Cilic reflects on the ‘sudden’ retirements of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray
Rafael Nadal will join Andy Murray and Roger Federer on the professional tennis retirement list later in 2024.
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Marin Cilic and the Big 4 sans Novak Djokovic (via X)
2014 US Open champion Marin Cilic has shared his thoughts on the retirements of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Andy Murray. These three members of the “Big 4” have officially announced their departures from professional tennis, with Nadal and Murray joining Federer in stepping away this year.
Cilic, who has faced all three on numerous occasions, described their retirements as “sudden.” The Croatian player, now in the later stages of his own career, still hopes to remain competitive for as long as possible.
With Roger, Andy and Rafa, it happened very suddenly. You never know, it’s like in life. You have to do your best. I think it’s a bit of a shame to see Roger and Rafa doing well and then being eliminated like that. It’s the same with Andy when he was at the top and had to have those hip operations. The sport was a bit cruel to them: they gave a lot to the sport and yet it all went away in a second. I hope I can still be competitive, just to give myself a chance. I would like to play another two or three seasons. I will try to adjust the schedule by maybe playing fewer tournaments. The motivation is still there.
Marin Cilic said in an interview on Tennis Majors
Cilic has had memorable matches against Federer, Nadal, and Murray. His most significant victories include defeating Federer in the 2014 US Open and playing a tough 2018 quarterfinal against Nadal, where Nadal had to retire in the fifth set due to injury.
Beyond his Grand Slam win at the US Open, Cilic has reached two other major finals. He made it to the finals at Wimbledon in 2017 and the Australian Open in 2018 but lost to Federer both times.
Judy Murray gives feedback to Andy Murray about Saudi Arabian tennis
Judy Murray has spoken out in support of the WTA Finals being held in Saudi Arabia. Her comments come despite her son, Andy Murray, previously turning down offers to play in the country. Judy has shared details about her discussions with Andy and why she believes tennis in Saudi Arabia is important.
Yeah, I’ve been able to share with him what my experience here is. And I would say to anyone who might have any concern about us coming here, I would say come over and see for yourself, you will be blown away by the hospitality, and the welcome, and the passion for making change.
Judy Murray said on BBC 5 Live Sport
The WTA Finals have faced backlash, especially due to the location choice. Some critics are uncomfortable with hosting a major women’s event in Saudi Arabia. Low attendance in Riyadh has also been a concern, adding to the controversy.
Only about 400 spectators were present on the second day of the competition. This was when American stars Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula played against each other. The WTA has acknowledged the issue of poor attendance and is addressing it.
Despite the criticism, top players are competing. Aryna Sabalenka, the new world number one, has made a strong start. She secured her spot in the semi-finals with victories over Qinwen Zheng and Jasmine Paolini.
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Fahad Hamid
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