Joe Salisbury, a six-time Grand Slam champion and former world number one in doubles, has retired from professional tennis at the age of 34. The Briton chose the US Open as his farewell event, reaching the semi-finals alongside his long-time partner Rajeev Ram, who has also decided to call time on his career. Tellingly, it was at Flushing Meadows that the pair made history in 2023, becoming the first team ever to win three consecutive men's doubles titles at the US Open. Salisbury is regarded as Britain's most successful player of the Open Era, the period since 1968 when professionals were first allowed to compete at the majors. He also lifted the Australian Open title in 2020 and won two mixed doubles crowns with Desirae Krawczyk.
Earlier this year, Salisbury took a three-month break from the tour, citing the psychological pressure and anxiety he experienced at tournaments. "For as long as I can remember, tennis has been an integral part of my life. I feel incredibly lucky to have had so many opportunities, such incredible experiences and so much success," he reflected as he explained his decision. Ultimately, Salisbury bows out with 17 tour-level titles, including back-to-back triumphs at the ATP Finals, the season-ending championship, in 2022 and 2023.
