Swiatek, Sakkari, Sabalenka, Lisicki, Pavlyuchenkova, Jabeur, Raducanu all pay tribute to Kontaveit after retirement bombshell

The love for Anett Kontaveit was very much evident after she announced her decision to step away from the sport on Tuesday morning.

Kontaveit was last year the WTA World No.2 and dominated the back end of 2021 but is ending her career due to back injuries at just the age of 27.

"Today I am announcing that I am ending my career as a competitive athlete. After several doctor’s visits and consultations with my medical team, I have been advised that I have lumbar disc degeneration in my back," Kontaveit wrote on Instagram.

"This does not allow for full-scale training or continued competition. Therefore, it is impossible to continue at the top level in such a highly competitive field," she added.

"I am ready for new challenges after my last effort as a professional tennis player – to enjoy the game and compete as hard as I can at Wimbledon," the 27-year-old concluded.

But social media rallied behind Kontaveit with Emma Raducanu, Aryna Sabalenka, Sabine Lisicki, Maria Sakkari among others sending love the way of Kontaveit with two of those being big rivals of the Estonian during her best portion of her career.

World No.1 Iga Swiatek also showed her love for her. "So sorry to read that. Wishing you all the best Anett."

She will receive one final swansong at Wimbledon and will likely be celebrated albeit as one of the what could've been stories of the WTA Tour.