They say all’s well that ends well but no one tells us how it must be when it has all been good throughout but ends not so well.
Kim Clijsters on court for the last time
Kim Clijsters has been a power woman in her sport. She had the aggression to play, the tactics to defeat, the charm to attract fans and the determination to make a successful comeback. Her career has been spread over years and years of practice in the sport that took pride in such zealous female athletes. Through all those titles and trophies, Clijsters ended her professional career with a heart-breaking loss.
Partnered with Bob Bryan, the duo lost against Russian Ekaterina Makarova and Brazilian Bruno Soares with a score of 6-2 3-6. Clisjters’ performance had been somewhat dismal all through the tournament. She lost her singles, doubles and then gave a desperate end with her mixed doubles defeat. This is the same women who hold three US Open champion titles.
But the fierce competition ever since her leave, the rising new stars, the battling new positions all added up to erupt on the former champion in the competition. She said that she always worked to give her best performance and it is indeed tough when you have to leave with losses.
“Even from when I was eight years old until this last match, I always tried to give my best in everything that I did, whether it was sitting here or on the practice court.”
She added that she had a family to attend to now and continuing her career simultaneously was just not an option any longer though she also clarifies that she leaves without any regrets. There are some things that must be put into priority and it felt right to leave the game for good with a family waiting on her.
“I’m getting older. I’ve had a few injuries. It doesn’t mean I don’t love the sport. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to come out here and play mixed.”
Every departure and retirement ends with a few tears but none so for Clijsters. She put out her best, came with integrity and is leaving with the same. There will always be things to work on, things that don’t always pan out as to what you’ve imagined but life goes on.
Tags: Grand Slam, Kim Clijsters, Sport, Tennis, US Open
