Tennis News: Veteran star to call time on career with emotional home send-off

Canadian tennis fans are set for an emotional farewell as Vasek Pospisil, one of the country's most enduring players, has announced that he will retire following his final appearance at the Toronto Masters. The 35-year-old, who has spent nearly two decades on the professional tour, shared the heartfelt news on social media ahead of the tournament.

A career that spanned 18 years

Pospisil, who turned pro in 2007, has been a consistent presence on the ATP Tour for 18 years. Known for his powerful serve, tenacity, and doubles success — including winning Wimbledon 2014 doubles title with Jack Sock — he leaves behind a legacy marked by perseverance and national pride.

Announcing his decision on X (formerly Twitter), Vasek Pospisil wrote:

“Eighteen years of professional tennis. Looking forward to playing in front of you one last time in Toronto.”

This final match in his hometown will be particularly poignant, offering fans a rare chance to say goodbye to a player who has done so much for Canadian tennis. While Canada has produced top talents like Milos Raonic, Denis Shapovalov, and Felix Auger-Aliassime, Pospisil has remained a crucial figure in laying the groundwork for the country’s recent success on the global tennis stage.

The curtain falls in Toronto

Toronto has always been a symbolic stop on the tennis calendar for Canadian players, but the city has yet to witness a homegrown champion. Milos Raonic came close in 2013, but fell short in the final against Rafael Nadal.

For Vasek Pospisil, the tournament offers not just a chance to compete one last time, but also to close the chapter of his professional journey on home soil, surrounded by the fans who have supported him through highs and lows.

This year’s Toronto Masters is already making headlines with the withdrawal of top seeds Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Jack Draper, potentially setting the stage for surprise runs — and a sentimental spotlight on Pospisil’s farewell.

A moment for Canadian tennis history

Though Vasek Pospisil never clinched an ATP singles title, his impact on the sport in Canada has been profound. From his Davis Cup contributions to his ATP doubles success and mentorship of younger players, his presence has been vital both on and off the court.