One of New Zealand tennis' longest standing servants has decided to hang up her racket.
Marina Erakovic has confirmed she's retiring from all forms of tennis.
Erakovic has been fixture on the women's circuit over the past dozen years, peaking with a singles ranking of 39 and doubles ranking of 25.
She won one WTA singles title and eight WTA doubles titles and competed at two Olympics and a Commonwealth Games.
But the mounting injuries have finally taken their toll, and Erakovic has decided to call it a day.
"Over the last few years my body struggled to handle the demands of tour life and it became too difficult to play at a level of which I am normally capable," said Erakovic.
"I decided to give my mind and body a break this year in 2018, and after a lot of recovery and reflection I have decided to put the racquets away."
The 30-year-old made special mention of her hometown tournament.
"Sometimes even through injury, this has been my favourite event and I never wanted to miss the chance of playing at home.
"I really do hope that I brought excitement to those watching and supporting me, because your cheers, hugs, banners, messages, late night score following and the general love you have sent my way is really indescribable and I am so very thankful to my fans."
The Aucklander of Croatian heritage will now shift her focus back to her studies and another one of her loves, music.
"During my career I learned to play guitar and drums whilst on the road. It is something that has given me a creative outlet and a great amount of joy, especially throughout tough times.
"I have been chipping away with my studies and so far I have completed two thirds of an Economics Degree through Massey University. I have one year left to go and I will be finishing this next year at the University of Auckland.
"After this, I am open to all new possibilities."
Newshub.
