"It will probably be the last time" - Sam Stosur hints on future plans ahead of Australian Open

Former doubles World No.1 Samantha Stosur has revealed that the 2022 Australian Open may be the last time she competes at Melbourne Park.

The 37-year old Aussie, who will be competing in her 20th Australian Open next year, has struggled on the WTA singles circuit over the last few years, while maintaining some level of success in doubles. Stosur has won two doubles Grand Slam titles in the last two years, the 2019 Australian Open and 2021 US Open alongside Zhang Shuai.

"Chances are it probably will be the last time,” Stosur told reporters in Melbourne. "I’ve just done my first day back training today. I’m seeing how things go.

“I had a little run around in preparation and lead-up to a big summer hopefully. My knees are a bit sore, but I actually hit pretty well considering I’ve had two weeks off.”

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Although Stosur has never made it past the fourth round at her home tournament, the former World No.4 has been a shining light for Australian tennis throughout her career. She produced a stunning upset in 2011 to topple Serena Williams 6-3, 6-2 to win the US Open in what would be her only grand slam singles title.

Despite approaching the tail end of her career, the veteran's love and passion for the game has not wavered.

"I always love getting back on court,” Stosur said. “Pre-seasons can be a bit brutal, but I’ve done enough of them now that it doesn’t take too long to get back into it.”