Ivo Karlovic has not played a single match since 2021, but he refused to announce his retirement. Eventually, the Croatian champion posted a long tweet to make it official that he would not be back on tour anymore.
Karlovic is widely considered the man who possessed the best serve ever, thanks also to his incredible height (2.11 m) coupled with his ability to blast aces after aces. In his illustrious career, he blasted 13,728 aces, second only to John Isner, but his average was better than the American with 19.8 aces per match (Isner has 18.5). Ivo will turn 45 in a few days (28th of February). His best rank was No. 14 (18 August 2008).
This was his message posted on Twitter.
“Dear fans and friends,
I hope this letter 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. 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 fulfill 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. Cheers, Dr. Ivo”
