Jessica Pegula, Serena Williams' ex-coach, Jennifer Brady & others send touching messages to Lauren Davis after American's shock retirement at 32

Lauren Davis announced her retirement at the age of 32 months after wrapping up her 2025 season early. The news garnered the attention of the tennis world, including Jessica Pegula, Serena Williams' ex-coach, Jennifer Brady, and more.

Davis was last seen in action at the US Open. She was bested by Hina Inoue in the first qualifying round. On November 20, she announced her retirement on Instagram with a note.

The retirement announcement by the American came off as a surprise given its sudden nature and her relatively young age with possible years on the court. The 32-year-old posted several pictures from her tennis career and opened up about the 20 years she gave to the sport.

"How do you sum up years of memories into a single post?! I’m not sure, but I’ll do my best. I’ve dedicated the past 20 years of my life to tennis, and after the US Open I knew it was time to say goodbye. When I was 16 years old, I left home and everything I knew to chase a dream in my heart. I moved to Florida, and less than a year later I turned pro. I was never the tallest or the most talented, but I knew what I wanted, and I was determined to make it happen. At 5’2”, I was one of the shortest players on tour, but I never let that limit me," wrote Lauren Davis.

Here is the full caption:

The post captured the attention of several tennis prodigies, who sent messages for the American. Pegula, showcasing her love, commented:

"Lauren❤️ 🫶🏼"

Following Pegula, Williams' ex-coach, Rennae Stubbs, also dropped a comment that read:

"Don’t ever tell me, “she’s too small to play tennis” 🎾 !! You proved not only is that false, but false beyond belief! Congrats Lauren on a fantastic career! 👏👏👏"

American tennis player, Desirae Krawczyk congratulated Davis for an amazing career, writing:

"Congrats on an amazing career Lauren!! ❤️👏"

The Canadian tennis player, Gaby Dabrowski also chimed in with an adorable comment that read:

"Congratulations on a wonderful career Lauren!! Wishing you the best moving forward 🤗"

Calling Lauren Davis amazing, Katie Volynets commented:

"Aww Lauren congratulations!! You’re so amazing! Thanks for always being nice to me ever since the first time I met you :) ❤️"

Comments on Instagram

Comments on Instagram

Jennifer Brady exuded pride in Davis, commenting:

"So proud of you Lauren!! ❤️ #girliez4lyfe"

Brady's comment on Instagram

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A look at Lauren Davis' 2025 season

Lauren Davis kickstarted her season by competing at the WTA 125K Cancun, Mexico. She reached the round of 16, where she was toppled by Carson Branstine, who claimed a 7-6, 6-2 win over the American.

Following the tournament, she competed in the ATX Open, where she could progress further than the opening qualifier round against Ena Shibahara. The 32-year-old faced the same fate as the ATX Open in multiple tournaments this season.

Davis endured a series of early exits at the Indian Wells, the French Open, the WTA 125K Makarska, Wimbledon, the Cincinnati Masters, and the US Open. Lauren Davis wrapped up her career with the world rank of No. 256.

Edited by Tushhita Barua