The tennis world always keeps us on our toes, and 2025 is already serving up its fair share of surprises. While most players are gearing up for a thrilling new season, American star Denis Kudla had a different playbook in mind. On Saturday, January 4, Kudla shocked fans and players alike by announcing his retirement from professional tennis—a decision that came out of the blue and left many emotional. As the dust settles on a remarkable career, tributes have started pouring in from across the globe, with fellow players leading the chorus of admiration.

The American star played his last professional match alongside Desirae Krawczyk in the semi-finals of the United Cup. The duo baffled their Czech counterparts, Gabriela Knutson and Patrik Rikl in straight sets 7-5, 6-0, and helped their team to lead in the semifinals. But what followed after the match was rather unexpected. Kudla was seen quite emotional and when quizzed about the reason, he surprised everyone by announcing that he would retire from the sport. Soon, he made an Instagram post thanking the sport and his support systems on his journey. 

Sharing a string of pictures and penning an emotional message, Kudla wrote, “Thank you Tennis, This journey has come to an end. I want to thank everyone who made this ride something special for me, no matter how big or small the role in my life. Every memory will be something that I cherish forever and will always be proud of.”

He also highlighted that the sport helped him amass a lot in his life. “I am forever grateful to this sport I love. My Family, My Friends, My Wife, Tyler, My Baby, Rush – Thank you for the sacrifices you made to allow me to reach for my dreams and become who I am today,” Kudla added. Now, tributes have started to pour in, with his compatriots leading the fray. 

Jessica Pegula revealed an interesting fact and claimed she helped Kudla make the post. “I made the post 😢 Incredible career Denis!! Glad got to watch @des_krawczyk11 peg you in the head last night in possibly one of your last matches haha.” Kudla’s partner of the last match, Krawczyk, made a similarly heartwarming tribute and wrote, “Denis 👏🏼 Denis 👏🏼 Denis 👏🏼 Congrats on a great career!!! 🫶🏻 🔒.” 

Remember, Kudla demonstrated some thrilling games over the years. His mettle on the grass was seen most times, including at the 2022 Wimbledon, when he alongside Jack Sock qualified for the tournament quarterfinals, which is also his most remarkable campaign in a Grand Slam. As he steps away from the sport, his ATP counterparts also paid stirring ode to him.

In a tribute to the 32-year-old, American ATP star Frances Tiafoe wrote, “Thank you bro.” A similar reaction came from Tommy Paul, who added, “Thank you dudla.” Denis Kudla also has a career-high ranking of 53, which he achieved in 2016. Hence, the warm tributes and greetings are quite deserved. Joining the fray was former pro, Shelby Rogers, who wrote, “Well done Denis! Amazing career, on to even greater things! Congrats and enjoy! 👏”

Kudla also witnessed his team cheering for him as he announced he was stepping away from the game. However, the star player seems contented and happy as he steps into the next phase of his life. 

Denis Kudla makes an honest admission about his emotions on stepping away from tennis

It is never a straightforward deal for a player to bid adieu to a sport they have given their life. The situation is no different for Kudla, who has remained on the circuit for around 16 years since turning pro in 2009. However, Kudla seems quite satisfied with his career, as evidenced by his words in the post-match interview. 

When quizzed if he would tear up, Kudla made a hilarious confession. “Yeah, for sure, like I got an ugly cry face, so I don’t want to do that,” he said. Continuing further, he shared that while his journey was strewn with challenges, he was happy to leave the sport on his own terms. “I mean, my journey was something special. I didn’t think I was ever going to be a professional tennis player, I didn’t think I was going to achieve anything I achieved.” Likewise, he hailed everyone who supported him on his journey and dedicated his last win to his baby.

“I’ve had some serious ups and downs, but to finish it off you know on my terms and not on a retirement and not in an injury (is) something special. I had a baby in July, so for him to win on the last note, uh pretty special,” he added.

Now, it would be interesting to see what lies ahead of the American star. Will more heartfelt reactions continue to follow? Well, that remains to be seen.