Women’s tennis Player Destanee Aiava decided to quit the sport at the age of 25.
The Australian professional tennis player, who reached a career-high WTA ranking of world No. 147 in singles and No. 133 in doubles, announced her decision on social media. She made disturbing accusations against the sport as a whole.
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The women’s tennis player described tennis as her “toxic boyfriend” who she is finally on the verge of breaking up with.
“I want to say a huge (expletive) to everyone in the tennis community who has ever made me feel less than,” Aiava began.
“(expletive) to all the players who sent me hate or death threats. (expletive) you to the people who sit behind screens on social media, commenting on my body, my career, or whatever (expletive) they want to nitpick. And (expletive) you to a sport that hides behind so-called class and gentlemanly values. Behind the white outfits and traditions lies a culture that is racist, misogynistic, homophobic and hostile to anyone who doesn’t fit in its mold.”
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August 24, 2025; Flushing, New York, United States; Destanee Aiava of Australia in action against Jasmine Paolini of Italy in the first round of the women’s singles at the US Open at Louis Armstrong Stadium at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Mandatory credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images© Mike Frey-Imagn Images.
(© Mike Frey-Imagn Images.)
The women’s tennis player achieved a career best of 269-178 in singles.
She is excited to do it again.
“Life is not meant to be lived in misery or half-(expletive). My ultimate goal is to be able to wake up every day and honestly say that I love what I do — and I think everyone deserves a chance,” she continued.
“I’m 25, I’m 26 this year, and I feel so behind everyone else, like I’m starting from scratch. I’m scared too. But it’s better than living a misaligned life, or constantly being in comparison and losing yourself.”
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The tennis player will be looking to make a fresh start.
This story was originally published by The yarn on February 17, 2026, where he first appeared in the Tennis section. Add The Spun as Favorite source by clicking here.
