“The journey continues and the focus gets redirected” – Karlovic confirms retirement from tennis

The Croatian has not competed on the ATP Tour for over two years

Ivo Karlovic in 2015 (Zuma/Panoramic)

February 21, 2024

Ivo Karlovic has confirmed his retirement from tennis.

The 44-year-old had not played on the ATP Tour since October 2021, when he lost in the second round of Indian Wells qualifying.

“Some of you have noticed that it’s been a while since I played a tournament and still ask me on a daily basis if and when I’ll be returning to the tour,” he wrote on X. “I’m sorry to disappoint, but with this letter, I want to make it official and finally announce my retirement.”

He added: “The journey continues and the focus gets redirected.”

Dear fans and friends,

I hope this post finds you all in good spirits and with a strong backhand!

Some of you have noticed that it’s been a while since I played a tournament and still ask me on a daily basis if and when I’ll be returning to the tour. I’m sorry to disappoint,…
— ivo karlovic (@ivokarlovic) February 21, 2024

The Croatian reached a career-high ranking of world No 14, and won eight singles titles on tour.

Standing almost seven feet tall, Karlovic will perhaps be best remembered for his huge serve. His best performance at a Grand Slam was reaching the quarter-finals of Wimbledon in 2009, beating both Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Fernando Verdasco en route. He also logged a big win in his first-ever main-draw match at a Slam, defeating defending SW19 champion Lleyton Hewitt in 2003.