MINSK, 30 November (BelTA) – Belarus' Max Mirnyi has announced his retirement from tennis, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Tennis Federation.
The athlete addressed his fans with an open letter in which he thanked his coaches and the leadership of the Belarusian Tennis Federation, the Sport and Tourism Ministry and the National Olympic Committee for support during 25 years of his professional career.
“It was a difficult decision for me, considering that tennis has been part of my life from early childhood. I am happy that I could enjoy it for so long. Either playing at ATP tournaments or for my country I have always treated my profession with high respect, always worked with full dedication. I am retiring, therefore, on a positive note, without any regret. I have managed to achieve much more that a kid from Minsk could dream of after taking a racket in his hand. My long journey in tennis would have been impossible without strong support from my family. I am indebted to my parents who brought me up in the best sport traditions. From the very beginning, my father became the key figure in my career, going through all the levels of my sport development as my coach, manager and friend. My wife and children have always provided me with incredible support and inspired me to move forward,” Max Mirnyi said.
The full text of the open letter is available on the website of the Belarusian Tennis Federation.
The Belarusian 41-year-old tennis player was world number one in doubles and won the 2012 Olympic gold in the mixed doubles with Victoria Azarenka. He is a ten-time Grand Slam doubles and mixed winner, the two-time winner of the ATP Doubles Final (2006, 2011). He won 53 ATP titles (including one in singles). In Minsk, the player has opened the Max Mirnyi Tennis Academy Center.
