Britain’s Jocelyn Rae announces decision to retire from tennis

British doubles player Jocelyn Rae has made the decision to retire from her professional career in tennis, the LTA announced today.

With 17 appearances for Great Britain at Fed Cup, 26-year-old Rae has been a fixture for her country since her first call up in 2011. She’s partnered up with fellow Brits Heather Watson, Laura Robson, and long-term doubles partner Anna Smith. Other career highlights include taking home the gold for Scotland at the Commonwealth Games in 2010 and 23 doubles titles on the ITF Circuit.

“I’m incredibly lucky to have played tennis across the world and experienced so much through the sport,” Rae said in a statement. “The sport has given me many opportunities and I have met the most incredible people along the way.

“Being on the tour can be a grueling place, but I feel that now is the right time for me to take a step back and spend more time at home with my friends and family and I’m really looking forward to it.

“There’s no doubt that the wear and tear on the body has played a part in this decision, but I'm excited for the next chapter in my tennis career, and I'm already enjoying giving back to the sport that has given me so much.”

Speaking on the news of Rae’s retirement, Great Britain’s Fed Cup Captain, and former British No.1 Anne Keothavong said, “I am delighted for Joss that she is embarking on this exciting new stage in her career.

“I have been so lucky to play alongside Joss in Fed Cup and more recently captain her too. She is a joy to be around and is an incredible team player, we will miss her on the team. Her positivity and commitment will see her successful in whatever she chooses to do next.”

Following 19 years in the sport, 26-year-old Rae will now focus her time on coaching, charity work, and building on her existing media profile, as she hopes to inspire future generations to play and share her passion for tennis.