Venus Williams reacts as Zarina Diyas announces retirement

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images Seven-time Grand Slam champion leads tributes after emotional farewell Venus Williams was among several players to send messages of support to Zarina Diyas after the Kazakh confirmed her immediate retirement from professional tennis. While Williams continues to compete at 45 and has accepted a wildcard for the Madrid Open, Diyas—aged 32—has decided to step away from the sport following her recent appearance at the Australian Open. Emotional farewell draws support from WTA stars Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images Diyas shared a heartfelt statement reflecting on her journey, from her early days in Almaty to competing on the biggest stages in tennis.

She highlighted reaching the top 30 in the world rankings and representing Kazakhstan at the Olympic Games as defining achievements. “Today I am closing one of the most important chapters of my life… I am ending my professional tennis career,” Diyas wrote. “It has been an incredible journey… the path of a girl from Almaty who dreamed of playing on the world stage.

” Williams, who faced Diyas twice in her career with their head-to-head tied at 1-1, responded with a warm message: “You’re an inspiration! Will miss seeing you on the court! ” Diyas replied, “Thanks Venus!

Means the world. ” Other players also paid tribute, including Daria Saville and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, who both shared supportive messages following the announcement. Diyas leaves behind a solid career record Over the course of her career, Diyas reached a peak singles ranking of world No.