Usyk hinted at retiring after his next fight
Oleksandr Usyk said that his next fight could be his last as a professional. The 39-year-old Ukrainian admitted that he is tired of constant training and wants to spend more time with his family.
The Ukrainian boxer confirmed that he is seriously considering retiring. According to him, constant training camps and heavy workloads are gradually sapping his strength. Usyk noted that after many years in professional sports, his body is simply worn out. Now he wants to devote more attention to his family and his children.
The boxer also explained why it can be difficult for athletes to say goodbye to the ring for good. Many famous fighters have announced the end of their careers, only to return later.
As an example, Usyk cited Tyson Fury, who has repeatedly announced his retirement but has returned to the ring. “I think my final fight is ahead of me. I don’t know why boxers often return to the ring after retiring. Take Tyson Fury, for example... We spend a long time in this sport, so it’s very hard to say, ‘It’s all over for me.’ But when you spend a lot of time at work, your body gets tired. I’m no exception. I’m not made of iron; I’m not an alien. I have a family—my sons and my daughters,” Usyk said.
The Ukrainian wants more time for his family
Usyk did not comment on a possible return after his next fight. On the contrary, his words suggest that this time he wants to put a definitive end to his professional career. Over the years in professional boxing, the Ukrainian has fought dozens of bouts and won the undisputed world titles in the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.
Now Usyk faces a decision that every athlete must make sooner or later. After his next bout, he may leave professional boxing to focus on his family and life outside of sports. The former undisputed world champion in two weight classes spoke about this in an interview with The Athletic.
Svitolina advanced to the round of 16 at the WTA 1000 in Toronto.
Prior to that, Elina Svitolina advanced to the third round of the WTA 1000 tournament in Toronto. In a grueling match, the Ukrainian defeated Spain’s Jessica Buzas Maneiro 6-7, 7-6, 6-4. The match lasted nearly three hours, and Svitolina clinched the victory after three tense sets.
Earlier, Ukrainian tennis player Elina Svitolina advanced to the quarterfinals of the WTA 500 tournament in Washington. In the round of 16, she defeated Polina Kudermetova, who previously represented Russia and now plays for Uzbekistan. Following this victory, the Ukrainian continues her quest for the title on American courts.
