Amanda Anisimova calls it “heartbreaking” as WTA player retires aged just 25

Destanee Aiava recently announced her retirement from tennis at the age of 25, citing major issues with the sport’s culture.

Aiava’s decision comes just three weeks after her first-round exit at the Australian Open. In a post on social media, she described tennis as a ‘toxic boyfriend’ and criticised its culture as ‘racist, misogynistic, homophobic and hostile to anyone who doesn’t fit the mould.’

The former world number 147 also said that her time in tennis had taken a toll on her health and family.

Aiava also added: “I learned what type of people gravitate toward a sport that’s designed to keep certain people out – one that will change you without remorse.”

Amanda Anisimova shares thoughts on Destanee Aiava’s exit from Tennis

Speaking with reporters in Dubai, Anisimova acknowledged she’d seen Aiava’s retirement post and was aware of the strong language it contained.

“I would say that’s tough for me to answer. Obviously, the post was disheartening, and it was sad to read,” Anisimova said.

“I personally don’t know her story. I don’t know her that well. I’m not really sure what she was talking about in that aspect. I don’t know if she was talking more about the reactions she received on social media or people in tennis.

“I just don’t know enough in detail to be able to answer that question.

“At the end of the day it is heartbreaking she had that experience. Hopefully, maybe she’ll change her mind and have a restart in tennis. You never know.”

Exploring the career of Destanee Aiava

After a strong junior career that included an exhibition match with Steffi Graf, Destanee Aiava made her WTA Tour debut at the 2017 Brisbane International.

She earned her place in that tournament by winning the U18 Girls’ Australian Championships in December 2016. Though she lost to Mona Barthel in the first round, it marked her entry into top-level tennis.

Aiava has gone on to win 24 ITF Circuit titles across singles and doubles. In 2025, she partnered with Cristina Bucsa to claim her first WTA Challenger title at the Birmingham Open.

Her best results at major tournaments have come at home. She reached the second round of both singles and doubles at the Australian Open, making appearances in 2024 and again in 2025.

Aiava’s final appearance came at the 2026 Australian Open, where she fell short of qualifying for the main draw after losing to Harriet Dart. In women’s doubles, she and Maddison Inglis were defeated by Aldila Sutjiadi and Giuliana Olmos in their opening match.

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