Spanish tennis star Sara Sorribes Tormo has announced she is taking an indefinite break from professional tennis. Aged just 28, Sorribes Tormo already has two singles titles and six doubles trophies to her name. But the current world No. 85 says she has been “suffering” on the court.
Sorribes Tormo posted a heartbreaking statement on social media explaining her decision to step away from the sport, admitting her absence could be “permanent.” It comes days after she won the doubles title in Bogota.
Sorribes Tormo also won her singles rubber during Spain’s Billie Jean King Cup tie last week, helping her nation advance to the Final 8. But the 28-year-old has now decided to take a break.
The world No. 85 took to Instagram on Thursday morning to announce the news in an emotional handwritten statement, admitting that she was struggling on the court and had lost motivation.
“Hello everyone, I wanted to tell you that I’ve decided to take some time. Some time for myself, for my mind and for my body. I’ve been suffering for many months on a tennis court,” she started.
“The cheerful and happy Sara that you see off the court is far from the reality of everything I carry inside.
“I’ve lost the excitement to train, to improve, and even to go to tournaments. The moments of suffering far outweigh those of calm, and this is coming from someone who has always loved to work, improve, and compete.”
Sorribes Tormo is now set to stop playing, and doesn’t know if she will ever return.
She continued: “That’s why, in addition to needing help, I feel that I need to stop and rest. I don’t know if it will be permanent or temporary.
“I want to be coherent and consistent with what my body feels.”
Some of Sorribes Tormo’s rivals and colleagues have already reached out with messages of support. “You are very strong… absolute admiration always,” Jessica Bouzas Maneiro commented.
Italian star Sara Errani sent Sorribes Tormo a “big hug” while Anna Blinkova wished her luck for the future.
Sorribes Tormo’s sad announcement seems sudden. Ranked at No. 40 in doubles, she won a WTA 250 title in Colombia alongside Cristina Bucsa less than two weeks ago.
The Spanish duo are also the reigning doubles champions at the upcoming Madrid Open, but Sorribes Tormo won’t be back to defend their crown.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk