The Wimbledon champion, 28 year old Marion Bartoli announced her immediate and shocking retirement from the sport after her 2nd round loss to Halep in Cincinnati.
Bartoli cited recent struggles with injury as the major cause in her decision to call it a day. In order to win Wimbledon, she felt that she had applied as much physical and mental energy as she could possibly muster; something she feels she could never replicate.
Obviously, Bartoli's retirement is no doubt also linked to the fact that 2013 has seen her achieve some major career goals. She achieved her dream of winning a Wimbledon title;her 1st major. She also demonstrated the maturity to break from her dad's coaching partnership, whilst reconciling a long strained relationship with the French Tennis Federation.
Bartoli finishes her career having won 8 singles titles and 3 doubles titles. She reached a career high of number 7 whilst reaching at least the quarter finals at all 4 slams. She earned over $11 million dollars in on court earnings whilst beating just about everyone; both Williams sisters, Henin, Davenport, Ivanovic, Jankovic, Wozniacki, Azarenka just to name a few.
Bartoli's fist pumping, shadow swinging passion for the game will surely be missed. So too will her unorthodox style and eccentricity off court. An exuberant and articulate woman, Bartoli will always be remembered as someone who persevered until she achieved her dream before going out at the very top. Goodbye Marion Bartoli.
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