At 35, Ricardas Berankis ends his career: 'One of the most difficult decisions of my life'

Former world No. 50 Ricardas Berankis announced, not without emotion, the end of his professional career. The Lithuanian, winner of the junior US Open and the Orange Bowl, reflects on a 25-year journey of dreams, struggles, and gratitude.

© si.robi https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Berankis_RGQ23_(52943034372).jpg

Clément Gehl

le 09/12/2025 à 11h59

2 min to read

Berankis Ricardas

Ricardas Berankis, former world No. 50 in May 2016, announced on his social media this Tuesday his retirement from professional tennis.

The Lithuanian had made a name for himself in the junior ranks, notably with titles at the US Open and the Orange Bowl, defeating Jerzy Janowicz and Grigor Dimitrov respectively.

He stated: "Today is one of those days that seem like they should never come, but when they do, they touch me deeply and with great emotion. I wish to announce that I have made one of the most difficult decisions of my life: to end my professional tennis career.

'I am closing one of the most important chapters of my life'

Twenty-five years is not just a number. It is a life journey, a childhood dream that I pursued to reach the heights of tennis. This stage passed in an instant, but it left me with an unimaginable amount of emotions, struggles, victories, painful experiences, unforgettable memories, and knowledge that will accompany me for the rest of my life.

There have been highs. There have been lows. These experiences have shaped me as an athlete and as a person. Every story has a beginning and an end... Today, I am closing one of the most important chapters of my life, and I do so with serenity and gratitude.

I thank all those who have been there for me: my family, my friends, my coaches, my teammates, my sponsors, my partners, my fans, and all those who believed in me, supported me, encouraged me, and helped me get back up when things were toughest.

My faith and your support have been my driving force. I believe we will have another opportunity to meet and remember my journey. Thank you for everything."