Fabio Fognini has swapped the tennis courts for the dance floor after John McEnroe suggested he should retire following last year's Wimbledon. The former Grand Slam star, 39, will be absent from SW19 for the first time in 17 years after heeding the advice of the seven-time Grand Slam champion.
McEnroe's Wimbledon Commentary
During last year's opening round, Fognini pushed Carlos Alcaraz to a decisive fifth set, winning the second and fourth sets. McEnroe, commentating for the BBC, said: "This was the perfect ending for Fognini. Luckily for Alcaraz, towards the end of the fourth set, the crowd realised that Fognini was playing unbelievable. Carlos looked more tired than Fognini even though there's a 16-year age gap! What in the hell is going on here? So the crowd started rallying behind Alcaraz and that picked him up a little bit. I almost hope that [Fognini] doesn't play anymore because I'm not sure he can play any better than that."
Wife's Support and Retirement Decision
Fognini's wife, Flavia Pennetta, who retired from tennis in 2015 after winning the US Open, agreed with McEnroe's view. Speaking to Corriere della Sera, she said: "I hope he finishes with the wonderful feelings of the match with Alcaraz. He was very good, I am proud; for me it is as if he had won. If he were to continue he would risk ruining that moment." She added: "In his own way. I am his mirror. I do not lie to him. But the choice is his."
New Career on the Dance Floor
Weeks after retiring, Fognini appeared on the Italian version of Dancing with the Stars, finishing third. He described the experience as a new job: "I learned a new job because, in the end, it was my job for three months. I met fantastic people and presented myself in a way that was unfamiliar. And as if that weren't enough, I also won, so I'm happy to show that side of Fabio Fognini that few knew." Reflecting further, he said: "It wasn't just dance; it was a journey within myself. I've discovered a new Fabio, I've taken off the armour. Third place is worth a gold medal. My wife Flavia Pennetta believed in it before I did."
