Wimbledon legend Ivo Karlovic, famed for his thunderous serves, towering stature (6’11”), and longevous career, has officially announced his retirement from professional tennis after an illustrious journey spanning 25 years.
While Karlovic may not have clinched a Grand Slam title or soared to the top of the rankings, he is a dear figure to all early 2000 Wimbledon Spectators. With a career-high world ranking of 14, the Croatian giant has left an indelible mark on tennis history.
In a heartfelt announcement shared on Twitter (X), Karlovic, now 44, expressed his gratitude for the extraordinary experiences and challenges he encountered throughout his career. He wrote:
“It’s been a gratifying journey, one that started from humble beginnings in Croatia during the transformative decades of the 80s and 90s,”
Acknowledging the support of his coaches, family, and fans, Karlovic pledged to remain connected to the sport, aiming to impart his wisdom and experiences to future generations of tennis players. Karlovic further affirmed:
“The journey continues, albeit in a different direction. I am immensely grateful for the opportunities tennis has provided me,”
Andy Murray (Left) & 6’11” Ivo Karlovic (Right) in Wimbledon 2015
Karlovic’s legacy is etched in the annals of Wimbledon history, where he made headlines with his debut Grand Slam victory over defending champion Lleyton Hewitt in 2003. Additionally, his remarkable run to the quarter-finals in 2009 showcased his prowess on the prestigious grass courts, where he faced the legendary Roger Federer.
However, it was Karlovic’s thunderous serves that truly set him apart. Affectionately dubbed ‘Dr. Ivo’, he held the record for the fastest serve in ATP events until 2016, unleashing a blistering 156 miles per hour serve during the 2011 Davis Cup, captivating audiences worldwide.
While his records were eventually surpassed by fellow tennis titans like Samuel Groth and John Isner, Karlovic’s impact on the game remains profound. His tenacity, resilience, and unparalleled skill have left an enduring legacy that will inspire generations of tennis enthusiasts for years to come.
