Ferrer’s career ends with Zverev loss in Madrid

Published by AP

David Ferrer speaks to the crowd after he plays the last match of his career at the Mutua Madrid Open (Getty Images)
Former world No.3 and 2013 Roland Garros finalist David Ferrer calls time on a lengthy career following a second-round loss to Alexander Zverev at the Madrid Masters.

David Ferrer’s career came to an end with a 6-4 6-1 loss to Alexander Zverev in the second round at the Madrid Open.

The 37-year-old Spaniard had announced earlier that this would be his last tournament because he didn’t feel he was fit enough to keep competing at a high level on tour.

Ferrer finished his 20-year career with 27 singles titles, fifth-best among active players behind the top four of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray. He had 733 wins in 1111 matches, fourth-best among active players.

He lost to Nadal at the 2013 French Open final, the only time he made it to a Grand Slam title match.

Ferrer reached No.3 in the world that year, his highest ever ranking. He was among the top 10 for seven seasons.

QUIZ: celebrating David Ferrer’s career

He also won three Davis Cup titles with Spain.

Overcome by his emotions, Ferrer had a difficult time serving while facing match point, backing off a few times and asking for a towel to wipe his face.

After losing he received a standing ovation from the crowd then went back to leave his headband on the ground near the net.

Ferrer spoke for several minutes in a ceremony to honour him, thanking everyone who helped his career.

“I’ll never forget this day,” he said, with his wife and son by his side. “I’ve been very lucky. I’ve always wanted to end my career like this. I couldn’t keep playing at the level that I wanted, but I’m very happy and very proud of my career.”

Ranked 144th entering the Madrid tournament, Ferrer got off to a good start against Zverev, opening a 4-1 lead in the first set.

But the defending Madrid champion rallied to win the next five games to close out the set and eventually the match.

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