Wimbledon cult icon, 44, retires from tennis more than TWO YEARS after last match as 6ft 11in star hangs up his racket

TENNIS star Ivo Karlovic has officially announced his retirement from the sport – more two years after his last match.

The Croat, 44, has not featured since losing a qualifier at Indian Wells in October 2021.

Ivo Karlovic was known for his huge, powerful serveAP

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Karlovic defeated defending champion Lleyton Hewitt at Wimbledon in 2003[/caption]

The 6ft 11in star, known for his huge serve, last appeared at a Grand Slam at the 2021 US Open, but has finally confirmed he is hanging up his racket.

He posted on X: “Dear fans and friends, I hope this post finds you all in good spirits and with a strong backhand!

“Some of you have noticed that it’s been a while since I played a tournament and still ask me on a daily basis if and when I’ll be returning to the tour. I’m sorry to disappoint, but with this letter, I want to make it official and finally announce my retirement.

“I’ve had a very gratifying, unorthodox and long career coming from extremely humble beginnings, especially for a tennis player. Croatia was a very different country in the 80s and 90s when I was growing up, and I’m very proud of my accomplishments and what I’ve been able to overcome.

“I’d like to thank all the coaches and people who were involved in and contributed to my development as a tennis player. Without you this fortunate journey would not have been possible.”

He continued: “My family provided tremendous support and I love them immensely. I’m looking forward to continuing to spend time with them doing things that are important to us and that fulfil us.

“To all of you who were fans and supporters throughout the years, thank you for being a part of my journey. I love you all and I hope to see you again.

“I will stay close to tennis and try to share my knowledge and all of the incredible experiences on tour with new generations of tennis players. The journey continues and the focus gets redirected. I am grateful.

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“Cheers, Dr. Ivo.”

Karlovic, who reached a career-high ranking of World No14 in August 2008, broke through with a famous win at Wimbledon in 2003 when he beat defending champion Lleyton Hewitt in his first ever Grand Slam match.

Among the best performances of Karlovic’s career included reaching the Wimbledon quarter-finals in 2009 where he was beaten by eventual champion Roger Federer.

He also helped Croatia win their first ever Davis Cup back in 2005.

Karlovic, who turns 45 on February 28, claimed his final ATP victory at the age of 42 – making him the oldest player to do so since Jimmy Connors in 1995.

He retires with 13,728 aces to his name, the second most of all-time behind John Isner [14,470].

His record reads as 371 wins and 346 losses, with Karlovic earning £8million in prize money.

Six-time Grand Slam singles champion Boris Becker paid tribute to the big server, posting: “Well done Dr.Ivo!

“Amazing career with the best serve in tennis .”