Home Tennis Jessica Pegula Opens Up on Eugenie Bouchard’s Retirement: “She’s Really Content with Her Decision”

Jessica Pegula Opens Up on Eugenie Bouchard’s Retirement: “She’s Really Content with Her Decision”

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Jessica Pegula Opens Up on Eugenie Bouchard’s Retirement: “She’s Really Content with Her Decision”
Jessica Pegula praises Eugenie Bouchard's contributions to Canadian tennis ahead of her retirement at the Canadian Open.

Eugenie Bouchard has announced that she will retire from professional tennis after competing in the Canadian Open this week, which takes place in her home city of Montreal. The former top-five player revealed her decision through an Instagram post, confirming that this WTA 1000 event will be her final professional tournament.

After having limited activity over the past two years, participating in only a few events during the 2024 and 2025 seasons, Bouchard will bring her career to a close at the tournament that holds special significance for her. Following a highly promising start that included reaching the 2014 Wimbledon final, the Canadian star has struggled to maintain her form in Grand Slam events, even failing to qualify for five consecutive majors from 2021 through 2023.

Jessica Pegula Reflects on Bouchard’s Retirement Decision

<pJessica Pegula, Bouchard’s former doubles partner and fellow Canadian tennis star, shared her thoughts ahead of the Canadian Open regarding Bouchard’s upcoming farewell from the sport. Pegula emphasized their long-standing connection, pointing out that they often stay in touch and share the same agent. She recalled recent interactions with Bouchard during a visit to Washington, D.C., where they participated in sponsor activities together.

According to Pegula, Bouchard appears genuinely at peace with her choice to retire, acknowledging the toll injuries had taken on her career. She said,

“She seems really content with being able to retire here. She just said it wasn’t worth it in the end with a lot of injuries.”

Highlighting Bouchard’s influence on the tennis circuit, Pegula described her as an iconic figure who brought a unique presence to the Tour and praised her dedication and hard work over the years. She also reflected on their experiences as doubles partners, remarking on the enjoyable times they shared on court.

Jessica Pegula
Image of: Jessica Pegula

Discussing the upcoming tournament week, Pegula anticipated an emotional experience for Bouchard as she competes in front of friends and family.

“I know she has a lot of friends and family here so I am sure it will be a special week for her,”

Pegula commented.

Tracking Bouchard’s Notable Grand Slam Achievements

During her career, Eugenie Bouchard reached several Grand Slam milestones that helped establish her reputation on the international stage. Her most remarkable results include:

  1. 2014 Australian Open: Semi-Final
  2. 2014 Roland Garros: Semi-Final
  3. 2014 Wimbledon: Finalist
  4. 2015 Australian Open: Quarter-Final

Despite these early successes, Bouchard faced challenges in maintaining consistency in major tournaments in subsequent years. Throughout that time, she and Pegula played doubles together on several occasions and experienced success as a team.

Jessica Pegula on Bouchard’s Role in Elevating Canadian Tennis

Jessica Pegula acknowledged the important role Bouchard has played in raising the profile of tennis in Canada. Pegula noted how Bouchard’s success as a junior and her breakthrough performances helped put Canadian tennis on the global map. This growth has contributed to Tennis Canada’s increased popularity and the development of talented players on both the men’s and women’s tours.

Pegula also highlighted Bouchard’s engaging personality and competitive spirit, which have drawn fans and supporters over the years. She said,

“I think she is a fun personality. She is outgoing on socials whenever she is playing and I think competing really hard and always spoke her mind, and believed in what she believed in and how she wanted to do things. I think people are always drawn to someone like that.”

Looking Ahead to Bouchard’s Final Match at the Canadian Open

Eugenie Bouchard’s last professional appearance will begin with a first-round match on Centre Court in Montreal, where she will face Emiliana Arango. The event marks a significant moment in Canadian tennis as Bouchard closes the chapter on her competitive career in front of a supportive home crowd.

This farewell tournament not only celebrates Bouchard’s journey but also reflects on her contributions to the sport, inspiring a new generation of Canadian players.

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