American ATP Olympic champion retires from the sport with a heavy three-set defeat at the Indian Wells

The 2016 Olympic medalist won four tour-level titles in his career.

American ATP Olympic champion retires from the sport with a heavy three-set defeat at the Indian Wells

Steve Johnson of USA retires (Images via Imago, X)

American tennis player Steve Johnson called it quits on Tuesday as he lost to Emilio Nava in the qualifying round at the 2024 Indian Wells. The 34-year-old who won the Bronze medal in the doubles event at the 2016 Olympics bid farewell to the sport he played for more than a decade.

After losing 7-6, 6-7, 4-6 to his fellow countryman in a thrilling match on Monday, Johnson bid adieu to tennis. The 34-year-old waved to the crowd and shook hands with his opponent before an animated handshake with the chair umpire.

YouTube video

Johnson’s family also came out to be with him in his last moments on the tour. The American Olympic champion was seen in tears as he said goodbye to his fans. The video clip of Johnson saying goodbye to the fans and getting emotional was shared by the tournament’s official social media handle.

FS Video

Steve Johnson gives up the sport to spend time with his family

Steve Johnson turned pro in 2012 and won four tour-level titles in his career. The 34-year-old also won two challenger titles last year and the Olympic bronze medal will always be among Johnson’s top achievements.

Steve-Johnson-family
Steve Johnson with his family (Image via X)

Now, after spending more than a decade on the tour, Johnson is ready to embark on a new journey. The 34-year-old will be busy spending time with his family when he will be away from the game.

There’s so much more to life than tennis. Sometimes we get so inundated with this sport, we are so involved in it. We’re kind of in the weeds, we can’t see through the shadows. Having a family really puts life into perspective.

Steve Johnson said last year. (H/T: ATP Tour)

Johnson talked about a change in perspective last year and how he does not like to stay away from his family for more than two weeks. 

I don’t want to be gone that long, it’s not enjoyable for me to be gone for that long and not see them. I try to play maybe two, three weeks in a row, that’s about it and then get home. It’s definitely changed a lot over my career, but I couldn’t be happier with my life and where I’m at.
The Olympic medalist added.

Notably, Johnson has been married to his wife Kendall for over five years, they have two daughters: Emma and Molly.

Johnson, who has spent 12 years on the tour, has willingly changed his schedule in the past few years since becoming a father to prioritize more family time. Now, having hung up his racket, he will get more time to spend with his family.

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