Simona Halep retires from tennis after loss in Romania

Simona Halep, the former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion, announced her retirement from tennis at age 33 after a disappointing first-round loss to Lucia Bronzetti at the Transylvania Open in Romania. In an emotional on-court interview, Halep expressed mixed feelings about her decision, acknowledging her long-standing injuries and recent struggles to compete, including a significant doping suspension that limited her play. After her comeback in 2024 following a reduced ban, Halep managed only one victory in five tournaments, concluding her professional career with a 6-1, 6-1 defeat. Halep, who rose to prominence by winning major titles at Wimbledon and the French Open, reflected on her journey and the challenges of returning to the competitive scene. She emphasized her gratitude for her career while stating that life will continue beyond tennis. The announcement marks the end of a significant chapter in women's tennis, as Halep was a prominent figure in the sport for over a decade.