Tennis star Sorana Cirstea loses Hong Kong Open…
Tennis star Sorana Cirstea has surprised by retiring immediately after her defeat at the Hong Kong Tennis Open.
The Romanian world No.15 was overwhelmed 6-2, 6-3 by Russia’s Alexandra Shubladze in a shock outcome.
It is set to be her last look on court after Cirstea declared 2026 can be her closing 12 months as a tennis participant.
Sorana Cirstea retired from tennis after shedding 6-2, 6-3 to Alexandra Shubladze at the Hong Kong Tennis Open. Getty Images
The determination has shocked the tennis world since Cirstea is in the best type of her profession.
The veteran has put together a run of spectacular wins and performances to attain the top 15 in the world rankings, a feat she has never managed before.
Cirstea has joined an elite membership consisting of Serena and Venus Williams and Martina Navratilova, changing into the third girl aged 36 or older to end a season ranked inside the world’s top 16 in the last 40 years.
The Romanian announced that 2026 can be her closing season on the tour. Xinhua/Shutterstock
She was the top seed at the Hong Kong Tennis Open, which will likely be her last event despite many pleading with her not to give up throughout the 12 months.
Speaking in May at the Italian Open, she said: “Everyone has been asking me, like, ‘You cannot retire, you cannot retire!’
“And I imply, again, at this second, my thoughts is set.
Russia’s Shubladze scored a shock victory over Cirstea. Getty Images
“But we are going to see what I can obtain this 12 months and again, even if this is my last 12 months.
“I still have a lot of goals and things to improve, and I go every day on the court with a plan.”
Cirstea reached the semi-finals in Italy and even beat then-World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.
Cirstea reached a career-high rating inside the world’s top 15, the best place of her profession. Getty Images
That victory noticed her change into the oldest girl to document a first profession win over a reigning No.1 in the Open period.
Many are shocked Cirstea is hanging up her racket given her type this season.
“Brutal loss from Cirstea in her last career match … unless she changes her mind [I kinda selfishly hope she does],” said journalist Jose Morgado.
“If this was really her last match … what a farewell season she had!”
“What a great season Cirstea has had. I’m still remembering her win of her home tournament, Napoca Open, at the start of the season. I’d honestly love to see her compete for one more season,” wrote a fan.
“What a career from Sorana Cirstea. Whether Hong Kong was the last match or not, tennis fans will remember the fight and the joy she brought to the court. All the best for whatever comes next,” added another.
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