TENNIS
Verdasco hopes to 'give it all' as he closes out career partnering Djokovic
Spanish great Fernando Verdasco has said he is "going to enjoy every moment" as he closes out his illustrious career by playing alongside Novak Djokovic in Doha.
The 41-year-old Spaniard will partner 24-time grand slam champion Djokovic in doubles at the Qatar Open, which gets under way on Monday.
The duo is set to face Alexander Bublik and Karen Khachanov in the first round, with Verdasco having not featured on the ATP tour since 2023.
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"After so many incredible years on the ATP Tour, the time has come for my final tournament," Verdasco posted on Instagram, announcing his retirement.
"And what better way to finish than playing doubles with my friend Djokovic, a true legend of our sport and one of the best athletes of all time.
"I’m going to enjoy every moment and give it my all one last time. Thank you everyone that has been there for me during all my career, in the good and in the bad times.
"Let’s make this week unforgettable."
Verdasco, who reached a career-high seventh in the world rankings, secured seven tour-level titles and has won 559 matches during his career.
He also helped Spain win the Davis Cup three times - in 2008, 2009 and 2011.
Verdasco reached the Australian Open semi-finals in 2009, losing to eventual champion and compatriot Rafael Nadal in a five-hour, 10-minute epic, while he was beaten by Djokovic in the US Open quarter-finals the same year.
He also won eight titles in doubles and reached a career-high eighth in the rankings.
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