Share

Scheepers announces retirement

Cape Town - After more than 15 years competing on the international tennis tour, South Africa's Chani Scheepers has confirmed her retirement.

“I’ve decided to officially retire from playing professional tennis. It’s been an honour to represent South Africa around the world and I’m proud of all I’ve achieved throughout my career. I’ve had some amazing experiences and will have great memories of my time on tour. Some of the highlights I’ll remember are winning my first WTA singles title in Guangzhou, reaching the doubles semi-finals at Wimbledon and helping the South African team earn promotion in Fed Cup. I’m looking forward to starting the next chapter now, and will still be travelling a limited schedule on tour coaching Alison Riske, which is an exciting new challenge for me. A big thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me throughout my playing career. It wouldn’t have been the same wonderful experience without you!”

Born in Harrismith, Free State, 31-year-old Scheepers turned professional in 2000. Scheepers reached a career high singles ranking of 37th (October 2011) and doubles ranking of 42nd (April 2014).

Scheepers has won one singles (Guangzhou 2011) and one doubles title (Strasbourg 2013) on the WTA tour, as well as 12 singles and 20 doubles titles on the ITF tour during her career. Scheepers also was also a four-time WTA doubles runner-up during her career.

Earl Grainger, South African Fed Cup captain said Scheepers “epitomised the word professionalism”.

“Chani had a great career and will be sorely missed. I would like to thank Chani for being part of the Fed Cup team that got promoted to World Group 1. Chani was such an inspiration not only to myself but  to the whole team and the whole of South Africa. I wish Chani all the best with the road ahead”.

Tennis South Africa president Gavin Crookes said that Scheepers played a huge part in the promotion and development of the game in South Africa throughout her career.

“Heroes are important and Chani was certainly one of them, a player who impressed with her professionalism and work ethic and total commitment to being the best player possible. We salute you Chani and wish you well in your retirement.”

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE