Two-time Grand Slam finalist Kevin Anderson set for retirement U-turn, accepts Hall of Fame Open Newport wildcard

Kevin Anderson is the latest player to perform a retirement U-turn accepting a wildcard for Hall of Fame Open in Newport which will take place a week on Monday.

The South African who won the tournament in 2021 retired only just over a year ago ending his career in Miami after announcing his farewell last May.

But it seems the two-time Grand Slam finalist at Wimbledon and the US Open still has unfinished business and living in Florida will likely attempt to play the US Open.

At the age of 37, he will hit the grass again after being a well known fixture this time of year including the 2018 Wimbledon final.

"I'm thrilled to make my return to the tour in Newport," said Anderson.

"Winning the Hall of Fame Open in 2021 was a special moment for me. I couldn't think of a better place to make my comeback and I'm excited to hit the grass once again."

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At the time of retirement, he cited a lack of passion and injuries taking their toll.

“For many months I was continuing to play even though I felt my sheer passion and determination weren’t maybe quite there as they had been before.

“After Miami I realised it had been slow progression over the last few months. It’s been a tough couple years for me. I’ve had multiple knee surgeries, but not just physically – mentally and emotionally, it’s been challenging.”

As well as not wanting one final Grand Slam appearance, albeit it is unknown whether this will be a big comeback or just a one off few tournaments to close the door.

“It crossed my mind to play one more big tournament but my whole career has been focused on training professionally, being prepared for tournaments and wanting to do well.

“I knew it was time to step away. For me not to be fully vested in the competition and prepared and just to go and play at, say Wimbledon, for the sake of doing it one more time would not be who I am as a tennis player and I’m okay with that.”

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Ben Rothenberg

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Two-time Slam finalist Kevin Anderson returning to tour in a couple weeks at ATP 250 Newport.

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