The singles career of American James Blake came to an end on Wednesday at the US Open 2013 Championships with a tough 6-7(2), 3-6, 6-4, 7-6(2), 7-6(2) loss to Croatia’s Ivo Karlovic. Blake won the first two sets before losing the next three in close fashion.
“I don’t know when it’s going to hit me,” the former World No. 4 said on court. “I don’t think I’ll be sleeping much tonight.
“Thanks for staying everyone. I can look at the clock, it’s after midnight and I’ve still got a lot of people here supporting me. It’s hitting me now that I’m never going to have this again in my life, and I need to appreciate every single one of you for being here.”
The 33-year old seemed headed to extend his run at his final tournament after leading the first two sets. However, he just couldn’t convert in the final three sets, including two close tiebreakers in the fourth and fifth set.
“That ovation makes me realise that everything I did, that every bit of hard work was worth it to play in front of you guys, and to do this for 14 years. If I’d just been playing in my backyard, it wouldn’t have meant anything, but to do it in front of you guys, I have so many highs and lows in front of you. It’ll never be forgotten. I’m going to take in every memory I’ve had here,” Blake said, referring to the standing ovation he got after the match.
“I also have to say there’s a few that are special here. Everyone sitting in my box is so important to me. I’m definitely going to think about this match and how I could have won it, but I’m lucky enough to still think of this as a happy moment because I have the rest of my life to spend with the people there in that box. They’ve all been with me through a lot more highs and lows than just tennis. And now the rest of my life will revolve around that, my family and friends. I love you guys for being here and being part of my life and my career.”
Blake will still be competing at the US Open, this time in doubles, with compatriot Jack Sock.
