Tennis champion Federer retires

Tennis great Roger Federer has announced his retirement from the sport and will finish up after next week's Laver Cup in London.

The 41-year-old took to social media to explain to the world why it was time to hang up the racquet.

“Today I want to share some news with all of you…As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form.

“But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear.”

Federer is the first man to win 20 grand slam single titles.

“This is a bittersweet decision because I will miss everything the tour has given me,” he said.

Rival and friend Rafael Nadal paid tribute to Federer.

“If he’s playing very good, I have to play unbelievable. If not, it’s impossible. When he’s 100 per cent, he’s playing in another league. It’s impossible to stop him.”

Federer won six Australian Open singles titles, one French Open, eight Wimbledon titles and five US open titles.

IMAGE: FILE