In Montreal, Eugenie Bouchard bid farewell to tennis with a memorable performance, demonstrating that her competitive level remains intact. In her hometown, the tennis player offered an exciting match and an emotional goodbye, culminating in a defeat in her last match.
I always felt that my career would end here. Montreal is where I was born and raised, so it feels good. It’s an emotional moment. I think I wanted a moment like this because my career deserved it. I really think I had it tonight and I am very grateful for that.
Eugenie Bouchard
Amidst laughter, Bouchard revealed that her sister started a petition for her to reconsider her retirement, but acknowledged the demands of tennis. She thanked the sport for what it gave her, but feels ready to explore new facets of life.
The Canadian tennis player had extended her participation in Montreal after defeating Emiliana Arango in the first round, marking her first victory on the WTA circuit since 2023. Bouchard came back from a set down, but Bencic prevailed after two hours and sixteen minutes of play. The fans, present at the IGA Stadium, chanted “Go Genie!” and stood up on several occasions. Bouchard, visibly moved, gave a speech on the court.I have given a lot to tennis, and it has given me a lot, but I feel ready to leave it and do other things in life, but I will always be grateful for what tennis has given me.
Eugenie Bouchard
The match was close to going on longer. Bouchard won the second set and took the lead in the third, but Bencic reacted and tied the score. Finally, Bouchard, with a 40-0 disadvantage, could not defend the second match point, sealing the end of her participation. Bouchard reached her peak in 2014, winning her only WTA title, reaching the semi-finals of the Australian Open and Roland Garros, and becoming the first Canadian to play a Grand Slam final at Wimbledon. After a standout season in 2014, his performance declined, with defeats and injuries affecting his career. In recent years, he has sporadically participated in the professional tennis circuit, dedicating himself more to the PPA Pickleball Tour, where he holds the number 12 position in singles. Now, Bouchard hopes to rest, travel, and reflect on his next steps. He emphasized his interest in television and the world of entertainment.It’s very special to play my last match here in Montreal, on this court, in front of you. I remember being a little girl, sitting in these stands, waiting and dreaming of playing on this court someday. I feel like it’s a full circle moment.
Eugenie Bouchard
The word Bouchard was looking for was “curriculum”.I feel like I missed things because I didn’t go to university or school. Immersing myself more in television is definitely something I enjoy, so that’s a likely step. I don’t know how to write, what’s it called when…?
Eugenie Bouchard
I don’t even have one of those. Maybe my agent can create one for me. I’m not used to doing that.
Eugenie Bouchard
