Will 2021 be the year of farewell to world sport superstars?
Serena Williams (39) indicated with her tearful appearance after the semi-finals bankruptcy at the Australian Open that after 26 years of professional tennis could soon be over. When asked if it was her last appearance in Melbourne, she said, “I don’t know. If I ever say Farewell (goodbye; editor’s note), I wouldn’t tell anyone. “
The resignation-O-meter. BILD says the probability is that these superstars will stop in 2021.
Serena Williams (39)
For four years now, by far the oldest top player, Margaret Court (78) has been chasing the eternal Grand Slam record (24 titles). The clear 3: 6, 4: 6 in the semifinals of the Australian Open against Naomi Osaka (23) showed Williams: The younger players left them behind!
The age, the pressure – Novak Djokovic (33) probably also doubts that Williams will play for a long time: “When you hunt big things that relate to the history of the sport, it brings a lot of pressure with it.” Resignation-O-Meter: 85 percent
Tom Brady (43)
Shortly before his sensational Super Bowl win with Tampa Bay, he said he could imagine playing when he was over 45. But: If he misses the play-offs, anything is possible. Wife Gisele Bündchen (40) has said several times that her husband should retire. Brady also had to undergo knee surgery. Resignation-O-Meter: 65 percent
LeBron James (36)
Only a serious injury could stop Lakers-Star (contract until 2023) immediately. He wants to be the best NBA thrower of all time (3402 points missing), at least equalize Jordan’s six titles (currently four) – and play once in the NBA with his son Bronny (16). Resignation-O-Meter: 5 percent
Cristiano Ronaldo (36)
“Age doesn’t matter, it’s just about the mentality,” says the Juve star (contract until 2022). The Portuguese is in top shape, hardly injured (never missed more than four games per season since 2015) – and has a top rate this season (16 goals in 18 league games). Resignation-O-Meter: 0 percent
Roger Federer (39)
23 years of professional tennis have worn the bodies of tennis stars. The Swiss only completed six matches in 2020 and is currently absent from the Australian Open. But: Federer wants to resign in front of fans. At Wimbledon, where he has triumphed eight times, the time has come. Resignation-O-Meter: 90 percent
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Lewis Hamilton (36)
The Briton signed with Mercedes for just one year, the shortest contract of his career. Can become sole record world champion this year with the eighth title. The planned wage cap and the rule revolution from 2022 make his future uncertain. Resignation-O-Meter: 60 percent
Zlatan Ibrahimovic (39)
The Swede repeatedly flirted with the end of his career. But the Milan striker also says: “I’m getting younger every day.” Has struggled with muscular problems again and again this season, but scored 14 goals in 12 league appearances. Resignation-O-Meter: 5 percent
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