John Isner is known for his aces and long matches. Now the US American has ended his career and was overwhelmed by his own emotions.
He kept running his hand through his hair and looking down at the ground. John Isner knew full well at the US Open on Thursday that now was the moment to say goodbye to the big world stage of tennis.
He struggled for words after his last singles, pausing again and again until he said: “This is why I’ve worked so hard in my life, to play in front of this atmosphere.”
Shortly before, he lost to his US opponent Michael Mmoh 6-3, 6-4, 6-7 (3-7), 4-6, 6-7 (7-10). But it was not as if Isner simply handed him the victory. He battled for 3:57 hours and showed once again why he is known for his long matches.
“Wasn’t prepared for the emotion “
As he then said goodbye to the crowd, he added: “I haven’t always won like today, but to have this support is pretty special. Thank you.” Immediately after his defeat before the court interview, Isner was already sitting on the bench, touched, holding a towel to his face. Then at the press conference afterwards, tears rolled down the American’s face, which he kept wiping away with his finger.
“It’s hard to say goodbye,” Isner sobbed, “I knew the day would come. I just wasn’t prepared for the emotions.” These were likely to have been even greater after his subsequent doubles defeat with Jack Sock and the final end of his career.
Isner played 17 years on the ATP Tour as a professional and, in addition to his long matches, made a name for himself with his serving prowess. He hit 14,470 aces – more than any other Tour pro.
