The Laver Cup will be Roger Federer’s final tennis event|AlphababyCC BY-SA 2.0

Swiss tennis great Roger Federer on Thursday announced his retirement from the sport, leaving millions of fans across the globe in shock.

The Laver Cup, scheduled to take place in London from September 23-25, will be Federer’s swansong as a professional tennis player, the 41-year-old announced on social media.

The surprise announcement brings the curtains down on an illustrious 24-year career, which included 20 Grand Slam wins.

‘Bittersweet decision’
Troubled by knee injuries over the last couple of years, Federer said in a video message on Instagram: “I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear.

“Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.”