A Historic Exodus From the Professional Game
The 2026 season will be remembered not just for what happened on court, but for who walked away from it. A remarkable 17 players have retired from the ATP Tour this year, and four of them carry Grand Slam titles in their luggage. The list spans different generations and playing styles, from doubles specialists who reached the pinnacle of their craft to one of the most beloved singles players of his era.
Leading the Major winners bowing out is Stan Wawrinka, the 41-year-old Swiss warrior who spent 24 years competing at the highest level. Wawrinka reached a career-high singles ranking of three, claimed 16 singles titles, and famously defeated both Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal in Grand Slam finals, winning the French Open, US Open, and Australian Open. His final official tournament is scheduled for the Basel Open in his home country, with an exhibition appearance to follow in December.
Doubles Greats Leave a Lasting Legacy
On the doubles side, three Major champions are also departing. Jamie Murray, elder brother of Andy Murray, retired in April after a decorated career that included two men's doubles Majors and five mixed doubles titles. American Rajeev Ram, who turned 42 this year, stepped away in September following his US Open farewell, his resume boasting four men's doubles Majors and two mixed doubles crowns. British player Joe Salisbury, who turned professional 12 years ago, also closed out a career that reached the doubles world number one ranking and included four men's doubles Major titles.
These retirements mark the end of a genuine golden era for doubles tennis. TennisDraw users tracking bracket outcomes this season will want to account for fresh faces rising into the doubles draws heading into 2027.
