Throughout its history, Spain has produced some of the most remarkable tennis players in the sport’s history. On the men’s side, legends like Andrés Gimeno and Manuel Santana dominated their eras, while modern stars such as Rafael Nadal, Carlos Moyá, and Juan Carlos Ferrero have carried the torch to new heights. On the women’s side, players like Arantxa Sánchez Vicario and Conchita Martínez made their mark, but over the past decade, it was Garbiñe Muguruza who truly left an indelible legacy.
Born on October 8, 1993, in Caracas, Venezuela, Muguruza is the daughter of Spanish father Jose Antonio Muguruza and Venezuelan mother Scarlet Blanco. She was introduced to tennis at just three years old, following in the footsteps of her two older brothers, and her talent was evident from an early age.
In 2000, the Muguruza family relocated to Barcelona, Spain, where Garbiñe began training at the academy of former ATP standout Sergi Bruguera, a prominent figure in Spanish tennis during the 1990s. By 2012, Muguruza was competing on the WTA Tour, delivering notable performances and earning key victories that established her as a rising star.
Grand Slam glory and the No.1 Ranking
Muguruza showcased her versatility across all surfaces, earning her first major triumph at Roland Garros in 2016 by defeating Serena Williams in the final. A year later, she captured the Wimbledon title with a commanding victory over Venus Williams. Her stellar performances led her to the pinnacle of the sport, becoming the WTA World No. 1 in September 2017.
Runner up Serena Williams of the United States and Champion Garbine Muguruza of Spain pose with the trophies following the 2016 Roland Garros. (Julian Finney/Getty Images)
A rollercoaster career and retirement at 30
After reaching the top, Muguruza continued to compete at a high level, winning titles in Cincinnati in 2017 and Monterrey in 2018 and 2019. However, a first-round exit at Wimbledon in 2019 marked a turning point, prompting her to take a month-long break from the sport.
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While she didn’t claim a title in 2020, Muguruza reached the Australian Open final. In 2021, she found her form again, winning titles in Dubai, Chicago, and the prestigious WTA Finals. But as the years progressed, her results declined, and by early 2023, losses in Australia and Lyon led her to take a sabbatical from tennis.
“I gradually came to this decision over time,” Muguruza explained about her eventual retirement. “The months of rest were key. I felt better and didn’t miss the discipline of my old life. It wasn’t a sudden decision, but I realized I wanted to focus on my next chapter rather than the racket“. That sabbatical turned into a permanent farewell when she officially announced her retirement in April 2024 at just 30 years old.
Muguruza’s advice to Nadal
Though no longer competing, Muguruza remains a respected voice in tennis. In September 2024, when Rafael Nadal was contemplating retirement, she shared advice drawn from her own experience. “I was totally ready. Life was sending me physical signs, and I was eager to move on to the next chapter,” she said.
She added: “Nadal is also very prepared. His body, his mind—everything. It’s time for him to enjoy his son. I see him smiling with his baby and think, ‘Why are you still on the court? Go home, take the boat, and go to Mallorca.’ I believe he’s given absolutely everything”. With heartfelt words and her own example, Muguruza reminded everyone that even the greatest careers eventually reach their natural conclusion.
