Dutch tennis star Tim van Rijthoven has announced his retirement from professional tennis at the age of 28, citing a chronic elbow injury that has not responded to extensive treatment.
Van Rijthoven captured global attention in 2022 when he enjoyed a breakout season, stunning then-world number two Daniil Medvedev in the final of the ‘s-Hertogenbosch tournament to claim his first ATP title. His dream run continued at Wimbledon that same year, where, as a wildcard, he reached the fourth round before falling to Novak Djokovic on Centre Court.
The 2022 campaign saw him rise to a career-high ranking of world No. 101. However, a combination of injuries and loss of form saw his ranking plummet outside the top 350 the following year.
In a heartfelt statement posted to social media late Tuesday, van Rijthoven confirmed his decision to step away from the sport.
“Due to a persistent elbow injury that has not healed despite all rehabilitation and medical interventions, I am forced to say goodbye to the sport I’ve dedicated my entire life to,” he wrote.
Reflecting on the highlights of his career, the Dutchman described his 2022 ATP title win on home soil as one of the “most beautiful moments” of his life.
“And of course, the fourth round at Wimbledon, where I had the honor of facing a living legend, Novak Djokovic, on Centre Court,” he added. “To have stood on that stage is something no one will ever be able to take away from me.”
Van Rijthoven’s story — marked by resilience, surprise success, and an untimely farewell — leaves a lasting legacy in Dutch tennis and the broader tennis world.
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