Recognition from Boris Becker to Motsi Mabuse - Prominent support for Angelique Kerber
No Victory on Court, but Champion of Hearts: With her quarterfinal exit at the Olympic Games in Paris, Angelique Kerber (36) bids farewell to the tennis court and ends her professional career without a second Olympic medal after winning silver in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. With thunderous applause, the tennis player says goodbye in tears to reporters courtside: "I've given everything on the court, there's nothing more I can do."
In an interview clip published on "Eurosport.de" on Instagram, Kerber explains: "Yes, it's over. But I love playing tennis, I will continue to play. And with this atmosphere here... You couldn't have imagined a better last game."
Then she addresses her fans: "I can only thank you all from the bottom of my heart for the last 20 years that you've been with me. It was always a pleasure to play for you, to give everything for you." Finally, the native Bremen resident emphasizes once more: "I gave everything today. I left my heart in Paris."
"Thank You, Angie"
The sports channel Eurosport thanks Kerber for her 23-year career under the post. Her equipment supplier Adidas pays tribute: "Her passion and resilience have inspired countless fans and aspiring players." German beach volleyball player Louisa Lippmann (29) comments with three black, red, and gold hearts.
Colleague Sabine Lisicki (34) looks back on their early days together: "On our way to the U12 EU Team Championships, we sat next to each other on a prop plane and hit a big air pocket, making us think we wouldn't make it. We mastered that flight and many more. So many doubts were overcome."
Kerber also receives recognition from various quarters: TV presenter Dunja Hayali (50) pays her "respect" on Instagram. Professional dancer and "Let's Dance" moderator Motsi Mabuse (43) sends "lots of love" via social media. Fashion designer Kilian Kerner (39) thanks her for "all the beautiful moments you've given us. Enjoy your new life."
Boris Becker Bows Virtually
Wimbledon legend Boris Becker (56) picks up on her emotional interview in an Instagram story, with the approving words "Wonderful, Angie."
The Second Steffi Graf Leaves the Stage
Three Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open, US Open (both in 2016) and Wimbledon in 2018 make the Hanseatic woman the second-best German tennis player in history after Steffi Graf (55).
In February 2023, the 36-year-old gave birth to her daughter. After her maternity leave, Kerber couldn't find her old competitive form on the red clay court. But she managed to impress once again at the Olympics with her quarterfinal run.
In her heartfelt Instagram post, Kerber expresses, "I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue playing tennis on Instagram, it's a great place to share my love for the sport." Additionally, as she reflects on her career, Kerber says, "I'm thankful for the endless support I've received from my fans throughout my 23-year journey, it's been an honor to play for you all."
