"I don't know how people do these farewell tours" - Shelby Rogers speaks on being emotional prior to her retirement

American tennis star Shelby Rogers played her last professional match at the 2024 US Open, putting an end to a career that saw her compete alongside the best WTA players in the world.

The 31-year old announced her plans to retire in August 2024, before stating she would hang up her racket after her home Grand Slam at Flushing Meadows. Rogers would face sixth-seeded compatriot and friend Jessica Pegula in the opening round, falling in a competitive match that saw both ladies overcome with emotion at it's conclusion.

Read also

Tournament Centre Korea Open 2024: Schedule, results, prize money and TV Guide for Seoul return

Announcing a retirement can be very emotional, reveals Rogers

The South Carolina native was a permanent fixture on tour during the last decade, reaching a career-high ranking of World No.30 in 2022. Furthermore, she had her best Grand Slam showings at the US Open and French Open, where she reached the quarterfinals at both events. Rogers was also a member of Team USA's Fed Cup winning team in 2017.

Following her final tournament at the 2024 US Open, Rogers made an appearance on The Tennis Channel. The American spoke on her decision to retire and future plans, and revealed she found it difficult to officially announce her retirement due to her love for the sport.

"I definitely held off as long as I could announcing it because it was just very emotional," admitted Shelby. "I don't know how people do these farewell tours. Like, every week they are showing up and people are just complimenting you and hugging you. There's just so many emotions that go into it."

The entire segment can be seen below.