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Two-time major champion and former world no. 1 Garbine Muguruza has dropped out of the WTA rankings for the first time since 2009. The Spaniard played her last match on January 30 last year, losing all four of her matches and making a challenging start to the season.
When Muguruza chose to retire from professional tennis after more than 25 years of dedication to the sport, she felt the need to reinvent herself, seeking comfort with family and friends. The reigning Roland Garros and Wimbledon champion finds joy and fulfillment beyond the tennis court.
Garbin is currently on an indefinite hiatus, not entertaining the thought of a return.
Initially contemplating a return in 2024, Muguruza switched gears and decided to leave tennis out of her routine.
While maintaining her fitness, the 30-year-old does occasional kicking sessions with friends, enjoying the absence of the stress of competition and occasionally returning to her favorite sport. Unlike a competitive comeback, Muguruza’s current focus is on her personal life, prioritizing quality time with family and friends after spending several years away from home.
The Spaniard said she is enjoying every minute of this break, guided by long-term plans and tennis-related pressures. Instead, Muguruza embraced various activities such as Zumba dancing, paddle tennis, pilates, yoga and hiking.
Garbine Muguruza has dropped out of the WTA rankings for the first time since 2009.
This lifestyle reflects her commitment to wellness and her reluctance to push her body to its limits. In the midst of her peaceful break, Muguruza has probably kept herself away from all things tennis, unaware that she has slipped down the WTA rankings.
Last July, she received great honors in Madrid, admitting the challenge of making the transition and hitting the brakes after extensive work on the tour. As time goes on, the chances of seeing Muguruza diminish again, especially with her plans to get married this year.
Garbin, a four-time major finalist between 2015 and 2020, has experienced both triumphs and heartbreak on the grand stage.
In the year
In the year After reaching another Roland Garros semifinal in 2018, Muguruza narrowly missed out on a title at the 2020 Australian Open, losing to Sofia Kenin 4-6, 6-2, 6-2. She fell out of the top-50 in 2022 as she struggled to get past the opening week in the next 11 events.
A challenging start to the 2023 season with formidable opponents such as Bianca Andreescu, Belinda Bencic, Elise Mertens and Linda Noskova prompted Muguruza’s decision to take a break from competitive tennis.
While her return to the professional circuit is uncertain, tennis fans will forever admire Muguruza’s resilience and remarkable journey to two major crowns and an appearance in the WTA finals.
