Aspelin retires

37-year-old Swede, Simon Aspelin went into retirement today after losing a doubles final in Bastad. Aspelin was a player devoted almost only to doubles, in singles he played just two matches at the main level (both dead Davis Cup rubbers), he reached career highest ranking 436 in 1998, it was his first tennis year as a pro; 24-year-old at the time Aspelin, had finished the University in Malibu before.
He was a successful late-bloomer in doubles, debuted in Grand Slams as 26-year-old player, the same year reached his first doubles final. The US Open champion (2007), six major quarter-finals: Australian Open (2006), Wimbledon (2004, 06, 09) and US Open (2005, 10). Winner of 12 titles (in 33 finals; the Olympic silver medalist), participant of several amazing, epic battles #. Highest position in doubles – No. 7, three years ago.

# Aspelin’s three record doubles matches:

The longest Grand Slam match: Wimbledon 2006, QF;  6 hours 9 minutes
with Todd Perry – M.Knowles / D.Nestor 7-5, 3-6, 7-6(5), 3-6, 21-23
The longest super tie-break: Estoril 2007, 1R;
with Frantisek Cermak – A.Montanes / R.Ramirez Hidalgo 6-7(2), 6-1, [21-23]
The longest Olympic match: Beijing 2008, SF; 4 hours 46 minutes
with Thomas Johansson – A.Clement / M.Llodra 7-6(6), 4-6, 19-17

Aspelin’s comment on retirement