Bouchard gave her all, showcasing impressive shots, much like her previous match. While she lost the first set, she rallied to win the second and fought hard in the decider. However, fatigue in the final two games prevented her from keeping up with Bencic, ultimately losing 4-6 after tying the score at 4-4.
The 2-hour and 16-minute match marked the end of the 1994-born player's 15-year professional career. "This is my last moment, and I'm happy to play in Montreal," a tearful Bouchard told the crowd. "I remember being a kid sitting in these stands, dreaming of playing on this court. Today, that happened again, and it's the perfect time to end my career."
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Bouchard sheds tears as she bids farewell to the crowd during the second round of the Canadian Open at the Center Court in Montreal on 30/7. Photo: Reuters |
Bouchard sheds tears as she bids farewell to the crowd during the second round of the Canadian Open at the Center Court in Montreal on 30/7. Photo: Reuters
Bouchard reached the Grand Slam semifinals twice, at the Australian and French Opens, and played in the 2014 Wimbledon final. She peaked at world number 5 between 2014 and 2016. However, a concussion suffered in the locker room at the 2014 US Open, along with recurring injuries, hindered her performance and ability to compete at the highest level in recent years. She played only six matches in the 2024 and 2025 seasons after deciding to switch to pickleball.
Bouchard retires with one title, the 2014 Nuremberg Open, and seven losses in WTA Tour finals, including her most recent at the 2021 Mexican Open.
Despite her on-court struggles, Bouchard gained global recognition for her beauty. She maintained strong appeal with brands and amassed a large social media following. Publications like The Sun often referred to her as the "world's hottest tennis player". Her looks rivaled those of Maria Sharapova and Ana Ivanovic. Bouchard was once considered a pioneer of Canadian tennis.
"Tennis has given me so much, and I am very grateful for this sport," Bouchard said. "My family and friends have always been by my side throughout the years, motivating me to pursue new goals."
Having concluded her tennis career, Bouchard will now play full-time on the PPA Tour, a professional pickleball circuit, where she is currently ranked 12th in singles.
Vy Anh
