In a stunning and emotional revelation, Mirka Federer, the steadfast wife of tennis icon Roger Federer, has announced she is stepping away from tennis forever. The declaration, made during an impromptu press conference in Basel, Switzerland, on April 18, 2025, came with a raw intensity that left fans and the tennis community reeling. “I will no longer be part of this world,” Mirka said, her voice trembling with anger and resolve. “I’m done with tennis.” The reason behind her decision, however, is one that has moved hearts worldwide, revealing the personal toll of a life spent in the shadow of greatness.

Mirka, 46, has been a constant presence in Roger Federer’s illustrious career, from their meeting at the 2000 Sydney Olympics to her role as his manager, confidante, and biggest supporter through 20 Grand Slam titles. A former professional tennis player herself, Mirka retired from the sport in 2002 due to a persistent foot injury, shifting her focus to supporting Roger and raising their four children—twins Myla and Charlene, and twins Leo and Lenny. Yet, her love for tennis remained evident, whether cheering courtside or organizing Roger’s schedules with meticulous care. So, what drove her to this heartbreaking decision?

According to sources close to the family, Mirka’s announcement stems from years of mounting pressure and personal sacrifice. “I’ve given everything to this sport—my youth, my health, my dreams,” she said, her words laced with frustration. “I’ve stood by Roger, managed his world, and raised our children, but I’ve lost myself in the process.” Mirka revealed that the relentless scrutiny of their public life, coupled with online criticism targeting her appearance and role in Roger’s career, has taken a profound emotional toll. “People think they know me, but they don’t see the nights I’ve spent worrying, the moments I’ve had to be strong for everyone else,” she added, tears welling up.

The tipping point, Mirka disclosed, was a recent incident involving their children. “I found one of my daughters crying because of a cruel comment about our family online,” she said, her voice breaking. “That was it for me. Tennis has given us so much, but it’s also taken too much. I need to protect my family and find myself again.” Her decision to “quit tennis forever” means stepping back from all involvement in the sport, including attending tournaments and managing Roger’s legacy projects like the Laver Cup.

The announcement has sent shockwaves through the tennis world. Fans on X have flooded the platform with messages of support, with #MirkaFederer trending globally. “She’s been the backbone of Roger’s success. This breaks my heart,” one user wrote. Others praised her courage, noting that her story highlights the unseen struggles of those supporting global superstars. Roger, visibly shaken, issued a brief statement: “Mirka is my everything. I respect her decision and will support her in whatever comes next.”

As Mirka steps into an uncertain future, her choice resonates as a powerful reminder of the human cost behind fame. She plans to focus on her children, explore personal passions like philanthropy, and perhaps rediscover the woman she was before tennis consumed her life. “I don’t know what’s next, but I know it’s time for me,” she said, a flicker of hope in her eyes. For the tennis world, losing Mirka’s presence is a profound loss, but her legacy as a pillar of strength endures, touching hearts far beyond the baseline.