Tennis star announces shock retirement at age 28

Three-time Grand Slam champion Alexei Volkov has announced his immediate retirement from professional tennis at the age of 28, sending shockwaves through the sporting world. The Russian-born star, who won the Australian Open twice and Wimbledon once, said persistent knee injuries had made it impossible to compete at the level he demanded of himself.

"I have always said I would rather retire too early than too late," Volkov said in an emotional video posted to social media. "My body can no longer do what my mind wants it to. I want to leave this sport with dignity, on my own terms, while I can still walk without pain."

Legacy

Volkov retires with 19 career titles, a career-high ranking of number two, and a reputation as one of the most elegant players of his generation. His single-handed backhand was widely considered the finest in the modern game.