Chang to retire after U.S. Open

SAN JOSE, California, Jan 24 (Reuters) -- Former Roland Garros champion Michael Chang will retire after the U.S. Open and begin a 10- tournament "Farewell Tour" at next month's San Jose Open, the player's agent said on Saturday.

"Michael has done pretty much all he can do in the sport and realizes that his best tennis is probably behind him," Octagon's Tom Ross told Tennisreporters.net.

"However, he still believes he can be competitive this year and has a few big wins left in him.

"This tour will be a celebration of his great on-court accomplishments as well a celebration of what a great ambassador he has been for the game."

The 30-year-old Chang, who owns 34 career singles titles, has won just over $19 million in prize money and finished in the year-end top 10 seven times.

However, the former world No. 2 has not been the same player since he injured his knee at Indian Wells in 1998.

Chang, who became the youngest men's Grand Slam champion at 17 years, three months when he beat Sweden's Stefan Edberg to win the 1989 French Open, has not won a title since 2000.

Last year, the once fleet counterpuncher lost in the first round of 13 tournaments. He is currently 122nd in the world, his lowest ranking since he turned professional in 1988.

San Jose Open tournament chief Bill Rapp said that before Chang's opening match on February 10, the event will hold a "Celebrate Michael Chang" night that will include video highlights of his career and a presentation ceremony with Chang's family.

Chang won his first pro title at the tournament in 1988 and is a two-time champion there.

Chang is also scheduled to play Memphis, Indian Wells, Miami, Roland Garros, Los Angeles, Cincinnati, and is likely to make appearances at Houston and Indianapolis.

 

Related information

Stories

Rafter announces official retirement Hingis' agents say no retirement date set

Multimedia

Visit Video Plus for the latest audio and video

Copyright 2003 Reuters Limited. All rights reserved.