Everyone aspires to be Federer, Nadal or Djokovic, but so many players of all levels can learn from Kevin Anderson: Fans react to South African's retirement

Two-time Grand Slam finalist Kevin Anderson announced his retirement from tennis at the age of 35. Anderson was famed for his booming serve, powerful groundstrokes and mental fortitude, and reached a career-high ranking of World No. 5 in 2018.

Anderson became a professional in 2007 and won seven singles titles in his career. His most notable achievements include reaching two Grand Slam finals, the first of which came at the 2017 US Open, where he lost to Rafael Nadal.

Anderson also reached the Wimbledon final in 2018, beating Roger Federer and John Isner in the quarterfinals and semifinals, respectively. He went on to lose to Novak Djokovic in the final in straight sets.

Anderson became the first South African to crack the top 10 of the ATP rankings since Kevin Curren in 1985.

The 35-year-old posted a series of tweets announcing his retirement from tennis.

"Today I finally arrived at the difficult decision to retire from professional tennis," Anderson wrote. "There are so many people who helped me along the way, and believed that a kid from South Africa could achieve his dreams. Thank You Mum and Dad- I am eternally grateful for the countless hours you spent coaching me, the sacrifices you made, but most importantly the belief in me the whole way. I wouldn't be here without either of you. My brother Greg, you have been there by my side every step of the way. My whole family in SA and beyond, there was never a moment when I did not feel your love and support. "

Fans expressed their thoughts on Kevin Anderson's retirement, with many hailing his professionalism.

"Everyone, rightly, aspires to be Federer/Nadal/Djokovic/Serena.... but so many players if all levels can learn from Kevin Anderson, a consummate professional who hacked his game and maxed out his potential. He'll be missed."

Another fan wrote:

"Kevin Anderson retires from professional tennis… Great player and great professionnal, we’ll all remember his big results in GS and his determination on the court. You’ll be missed Kevin Anderson. Truly.

Kevin Anderson highlights his wife, team, sponsors and fans role in his career

Kevin Anderson thanked his team, his wife and sponsors for their support throughout his career

Anderson thanked his wife Kelsey for all her support, as well as coach Jay Bosworth and the University of Illinois, who helped him transition from junior to professional level.

"To my amazing wife Kelsey, I couldn't have found somebody more supportive than you. You are there for me through everything, I can't wait to take on the next chapter with you as we raise our beautiful daughter together.

"Thank You Jay Bosworth for the selfless commitment you gave me. You are a coach, mentor and most importantly, a friend. Thank you to the University of Illinois who played a big role helping me make the transition from junior to pros. Thank you to all my teammates, coaches and the entire Illinois tennis community."

The South African also thanked his coaches, agents, trainers and sponsors, giving a special mention to long-time sponsors Dunlop/Srixon.

"I've learned from so many people along the way. I am extremely grateful for the incredible coaches, agents, physios, fitness trainers, mental coaches who helped me maximize my potential and really achieve my dreams over the years.

"I'd like to thank all my sponsors. Especially Dunlop/Srixon; it has been an honor for me to be a part of your family. Thank you to all the fans who watched, cheered and have been there for me all along the way. I will always appreciate the outpouring of support you showed me. "

Anderson also recalled a few words of advice given to him by his father, who said that trying one's best and making sacrifices defined success, rather than results.

"I am so thankful for the wonderful things that have come my way purely because I was a part of this sport. As a kid, my Dad used to tell me that success isn't defined by results, but by the effort and sacrifice you make along the way in becoming the best you can be. I tried my best."

Anderson has played six matches in 2022, winning just one against Sam Querrey at the Delray Beach Open. He was ranked 107 at the time of his retirement. His last match came in the first round of the Miami Masters, where he lost to Juan Manuel Cerondulo in three sets.