Ekaterina Makarova announces retirement from professional tennis

Former world number 8 announced on her Instagram profile that she will retire from professional tennis and thanked all of the supporters.

Makarova was not just a great singles player when she reached 2015 Australian Open semifinals and also semifinals at the 2014 US Open. She was also a great doubles player and a former world number 1. During her career, she managed to win 3 Grand Slam titles in doubles, Tour Finals, and Olympic Games. On her Instagram profile, she wrote:

"Today I want to thank everyone who has been with me shoulder to shoulder all these years. Who took part in my sports career, starting from my childhood and ending with it. I was lucky enough to work with the best team of professionals. My favorite coaches, sparring, massage therapists, and osteopaths. My team has always been my mainstay and support. I would like to thank my lovely family and friends who have always been there for me. I always feel your love and support. My family is my source of energy and inspiration."

Makarova also thanked her fans that supported her throughout the career. "My dear, faithful fans! You have always supported me anywhere in the world. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Your faith in me, gave me strength and helped me move forward to victories! I am very happy and proud of my sports career. It's time to move on and start a new stage in my life."

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