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In a heartfelt message posted on X, Caroline Garcia declared her choice to step away from the tour for the remainder of the 2024 season. After competing in the Guadalajara Open this month, the French player has decided to prioritize her health and well-being, recognizing the toll that the sport has taken on her both physically and mentally.
Garcia explained the challenge of her decision, stating, “It wasn’t a simple decision because in tennis, every week off feels like falling behind—losing ranking points and ‘missing’ opportunities. But I know this is the right call to come back stronger in 2025 and fight for those big moments again.”
The immense physical and mental strain
The physical pressure of competition has been a major obstacle for Garcia, especially with her ongoing shoulder problems. “Physically, I’ve been pushing my shoulder to its limit, trying to recover while competing, and it’s just not working. I need more time off to heal properly,” the 30-year-old explained.
Aside from physical concerns, Garcia highlighted the need for a mental reset. “Mentally, I need a reset. I need to step away from the constant grind of tennis,” she noted. The pressure to perform can lead to a toxic mindset, and Garcia acknowledged this in her reflection on her current mental state, saying:
I’m exhausted from the anxiety, the panic attacks, the tears before matches. Tired of missing out on family moments and never having a place to truly call home. I’m tired of living in a world where my worth is measured by last week’s results, my ranking, or my unforced errors.
Feeling overwhelmed on tour
While her career has seen significant achievements—two doubles Grand Slam titles, 11 WTA titles, and a career-high singles ranking of No. 4—Garcia admitted that she has become overly focused on her perceived shortcomings. “In my mind, I’ve been fixated on what I haven’t achieved. I never made it to No. 1, never won a (singles) Slam, never reached an Olympic podium,” she lamented. This introspection reveals the immense pressure athletes put on themselves, often measuring their value by accomplishments and rankings:
Lately, I’ve felt overwhelmed on tour—the pressure to perform, the eyes watching your every move. I’ve been struggling with anxiety, closing myself off, feeling trapped on court. Winning doesn’t feel fulfilling anymore; it just brings relief that it’s over.
Currently, Garcia holds the world No. 36 position, a rank that has caused frustration and self-doubt. “I’ve been inconsistent, unable to stay in the Top 10 for a full year,” she wrote, capturing the emotional turmoil many athletes face as they contend with their performance levels.
Comeback in Australia 2025
Despite the obstacles, Garcia remains committed to returning to the sport she loves. “I’m opting to step away for now. I’m taking a few weeks off to recharge, then I’ll start preparing for 2025 early—getting ready physically, mentally, and tactically,” she declared.
Additionally, Garcia acknowledges that tennis has given her invaluable experiences: “Yet despite it all, I love tennis. It’s brought me so much—lessons, experiences, amazing people (like my fiancé), and unforgettable emotions. Tennis made me who I am.”
In her closing words, Garcia expressed appreciation for the support she has received throughout her career, ending with a hopeful, “See you in Australia.”
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