Andy Roddick Announces Retirement: US Open Fans Stunned

Roddick announced his retirement during the US Open today (h/t Sports Illustrated).  Stating he plans to retire at the end of this year's tournament, Roddick handled his televised press conference like a professional—with control, measured emotion, intelligence and humor. 

Tennis fans across the globe will miss the passion, intensity and dogged approach Roddick displayed on the court as a professional.

During his conference he stated, “I'm not healthy enough or committed enough to go another year.” Roddick handled a barrage of questions, professing his continued love of the game, stating, "I've loved every minute." I expect to see him remain in the game. 

ATP rankings for singles players placed Roddick 22nd in the world this week. For a young man who competed and excelled at the top of his sport, he finally decided he would depart active competition on his terms.

Roddick indicated his immediate plans were to focus on his family, his foundation and radio show.  Joking with press members, he stated he might come over “to the dark side” and perhaps enter media as a professional.  Based on the maturity, humor and grace he displayed today, I think he’d be a terrific ambassador, analyst and announcer for the sport.

As fans, we often invest too much emotion and place unrealistic expectations on icons in sport.  All too often, their decisions and actions reveal all of humanity's frailties. Roddick planned a graceful, grateful and warm exit from professional tennis. 

His personal stories of continued love for the sport and the US Open Tournament were moving.  He expressed gratitude for his parent’s empowerment of his interest, bringing him as a young boy to the US Open.  He confessed sneaking into the player’s lounge without credentials—where he recalled beating Peter Sampras in video games.

Coming on the heels of a dramatic fall from grace displayed by Lance Armstrong, this was a heartwarming display of grace.

Well done, Andy.  We’ll look for you on the other side of the desk at the US Open and beyond.