'Since I stopped, I haven’t touched my racket': Fabio Fognini shares experience of post-retirement life

Former Italian player Fabio Fognini has opened up about his life post-retirement. The 38-year-old ended his professional career after his first-round exit from Wimbledon 2025. Fognini lost to two-time defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a match which lasted all five sets and came second-best with a score of 7-5, 6-7, 7-5, 2-6, 6-1.

Soon after featuring in that match, Fognini announced his retirement. In a statement which was given during a press conference in London, Fognini stated that it was a ‘perfect’ way to say goodbye to the tennis world after losing against arguably one of the best players in the world. During the same press talk, Fognini stated that his objective was to continue playing till the Monte-Carlo next year, but he admitted that it was not possible.

“Today is something official. I say goodbye to everybody," said Fognini. "It was the perfect way to say goodbye to this sport. I was able to play in an era that probably is going to be the best era forever in the sport. I played against Roger, against Rafa, against Nole. Winning a Slam for me was impossible. I have to be honest. My best dream was finishing next year in Monte-Carlo. The main goal was that one because I was able to win the tournament. I've grown up there. But that's it. It was not possible. I'm happy the way I say goodbye to the professional tennis career," Fognini added on ending his career following his loss to Alcaraz. "I did my best. It is difficult now to say a lot of words. There is a lot of emotion in my mind."

Fognini has now spoken to Tennis World Italia, where he shared about his journey in post-retirement life. Fognini, who finished with nine titles in his career, stated that he has not touched the racquet ever since leaving the sport. "Since I stopped, I haven’t touched my racket,” said Fognini. “I’ve watched very little of the Wimbledon highlights. I’m one of those players who, when told, 'Have fun and go on vacation,' well, I take it literally (laughing)."

Celebrate a champion

Fognini’s fellow countryman, Jannik Sinner, has recently become the first Italian to win the Wimbledon title after beating Alcaraz in the final with a score of 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. Sinner, who remains the world number one in ATP rankings, has now increased the gap between himself and the second-ranked player to more than 3,000 rating points. Talking about how special Sinner has proven to be, Fognini called him a ‘champion’ and believes that his success on the court is increasing interest amongst the youngsters in the country. “We have the opportunity to celebrate a champion, the world number one, who is opening up so many ways to practice this sport,” said Fognini about Sinner. “He's bringing so many children closer to him ."

Fognini further went on to advise the youngsters about the importance of ‘enjoying’ the sport, which according to him is one of the most important things for an athlete who is trying to give his all on the tennis court. Fognini also went on to explain that becoming a ‘better person’ is more important than becoming a better player and believes that winning should not change anyone or the way they think about life.

“I always tell kids that the priority is enjoyment,” said Fognini. “If they’re lucky enough to do this as a profession, it will demand a lot of sacrifices and patience. Sports are life, but they also require so much. I believe parents need to be capable of self-criticism because kids are young and need to let off steam. It’s up to us to give them a sports education and send positive messages. I was fortunate to turn professional and have a mom and dad who supported me. I became who I am because of them. Some young people might ask me for advice on management. I've had my career, could I have done more? Yes. I think not changing as a player has been my best quality. For me, the person comes before the player; winning shouldn't have changed me as a person. I'm happy I have the opportunity to talk to you about it now.”