Spanish tennis player Sara Sorribes Tormo has announced she is stepping away from professional tennis for an indefinite period.
At just 28, she has already claimed two singles titles and six doubles trophies. However, the current world No. 85 revealed she has been “suffering” during matches.
Sorribes Tormo shared a heartfelt message on social media, explaining her decision and acknowledging that her break from the sport could end up being “permanent.” The announcement comes shortly after she won the doubles title in Bogota.
She also secured a singles victory in Spain’s recent Billie Jean King Cup tie, helping her team reach the Final 8. Despite that success, the 28-year-old has now chosen to step away.
In an emotional handwritten note posted on Instagram Thursday morning, Sorribes Tormo admitted she’s been struggling on the court and has lost her motivation.
“Hello everyone, I wanted to tell you that I’ve decided to take some time. Some time for myself, for my mind and for my body. I’ve been suffering for many months on a tennis court,” she started.
“The cheerful and happy Sara that you see off the court is far from the reality of everything I carry inside.
“I’ve lost the excitement to train, to improve, and even to go to tournaments. The moments of suffering far outweigh those of calm, and this is coming from someone who has always loved to work, improve, and compete.”
She continued: “That’s why, in addition to needing help, I feel that I need to stop and rest. I don’t know if it will be permanent or temporary.
“I want to be coherent and consistent with what my body feels.”
Several of Sorribes Tormo’s fellow players and colleagues have already shared messages of support following her announcement. “You are very strong… absolute admiration always,” Jessica Bouzas Maneiro commented.
Italian player Sara Errani sent Sorribes Tormo a “big hug,” while Anna Blinkova offered her best wishes for the future.
The announcement from Sorribes Tormo comes as a surprise. Currently ranked No. 40 in doubles, she recently won a WTA 250 title in Colombia with partner Cristina Bucsa.
The Spanish pair are also the defending doubles champions at the upcoming Madrid Open, but Sorribes Tormo will not be returning to defend their title.
