2012 has been a year to remember as a lot has happened so far. This time Juan Carlos Ferrero became the latest player to announce his retirement this year. Injuries forced the great Spaniard to reconsider his decision to carry on with his career he stated, “The Valencia Open 500 will be my last tournament, it’s the best possible stage for me to retire,” said Ferrero.

He further stated, “Because of injuries, I was not able to play a full season and it’s been a complicated year as I could see I didn’t have the same ambition after 14 years on the tour.” When asked about his future course of action, Ferrero seemed optimistic, “I am very excited about my new life and new projects. I will of course still be involved with tennis through the Valencia Open 500, the academy and my foundation.”

A year to remember for this great Spaniard was 2003 where he won his maiden Grand Slam title at Roland Garros and followed it up a very impressive performance at the US Open, reaching the finals. His commendable consistency during that season saw him climb to the top of the table at No.1. He became the only man after Ivan Lendl since 1980 to win at least 30 matches on both clay and hard courts.

Patriotism runs in Ferrero’s blood as he recollected the 2000 Davis Cup victory over Australia, where he lead the Spanish team to their first title by winning both his singles matches. “My greatest memories include the Davis Cup in 2000 because I realized the impact it had on the country, but it’s true that for a tennis player, to win a Grand Slam or become world No.1 is the most important achievement,” asserted Ferrero.

“I will miss the competition tremendously. It will leave a void which will be difficult to replace,” expressed Ferrero. Ferrero won 15 career titles including a Grand Slam at the French Open. His most recent tournament victory came at the Mercedes Cup in Stuttgart last year.

TennisEarth bids adieu to this GREAT CHAMPION and wishes him luck for his future endeavors.