LONDON, Great Britain – Agnieszka Radwanska plans to keep a close association with the WTA after retiring from professional tennis.
The 30-year-old former World No.2 announced her decision to quit playing in November 2018 but was at Wimbledon to receive a special collage from WTA Chairman and CEO Steve Simon this week.
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Although she will no longer feature on the professional circuit, that does not mean that she will become a stranger as she aims to retain her bond with the sport.
"I just want to slow down a bit, enjoy not having so much pressure or stress, but of course I’m always going to be around tennis," she said.
"It’s been my life and it’s always going to be in my blood.
"I’m not going to have as many weeks on the tour as before, but it’s nice to be back around tennis, broadcasting or commentating, and I’m always working to help build tennis in Poland, to help younger players."
While she is not regretting her decision to quit playing, she did reflect upon some fond memories, and in particular her push to the final of Wimbledon 2012, where she was beaten by Serena Williams over three sets.
"I’ve so many great memories, especially the final here – I remember it as if it was a week ago," she reflected. "It’s always nice to be back, especially here.
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"I was talking about my first time at Wimbledon to some friends, about playing on Courts 2 and 3 – and some matches on Court 17, which doesn’t even exist anymore because it’s a restaurant!
"Thirteen years in a row on tour sounds like a long time but the time flies and it’s over. It was a very hard decision for me, but I think the timing was right. I could no longer play at the level I was used to.
"I’m happy to be back here on the courts and see friends playing great tennis and still enjoy the sport. It’s fun to be here and see everything from a different perspective."
