It was very difficult emotionally," Kvitova's speech after retiring following her elimination at the US Open

Petra Kvitova's career came to an end this Monday with a straight-set defeat against Diane Parry (6-1, 6-0) in the first round of the US Open.

After the match point, the Czech player received a small tribute ceremony and delivered an emotional farewell speech:

"Thank you for coming. I hoped to give you a better performance today. It was very difficult emotionally. Thank you, Stacey (Allaster, tournament director). Thank you, New York—it's an incredible Grand Slam. I'm happy to be here for my last dance.

Thank you to my husband and coach, my agent, my family back home, and my parents. They sacrificed so much for me in the beginning. Thank you also to my former coaches. It's been a long and amazing journey. Thank you very much.