Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week.

1.) Del Potro’s Retirement

A week ago, I shared Juan Martín Del Potro’s return to tennis after four knee surgeries and last playing since 2019. However, after accepting a few wildcards, the conversation turned towards a farewell more than a return, which became evident during the Argentina Open. Delpo struggled in an emotional match and eventually lost to countryman Federico Delbonis 1-6, 3-6. Although he has a wildcard for the coming week’s Rio Open, he was unsure if he’d be able to compete after the match due to intense knee pain, and many assume it was his last match on tour.

2.) Peng Shuai Interview

In an interview with France’s L’Equipe newspaper this week, the world received a glimpse of Peng Shuai. During the interview, she attempted to walk back her allegations of sexual assault while a Chinese official watched over the conversation. According to Marc Ventouillac, one of the interviewers, she “seems to be healthy,” but when asked if she is safe said, “it’s impossible to say.” Concerns for her welfare have continued, and the WTA did not let up on its position, which they posted this week.

Read the Full Story

“It’s always good to see Peng Shuai, whether in an interview or attending the Olympic Games.

However, her recent in-person interview does not alleviate any of our concerns about her initial post from November 2nd.

We continue to hold firm on our position.”

— wta (@WTA) February 7, 2022

3.) Roger & Rafa Team Up

Recently, the Laver Cup confirmed that Federer and Nadal would reunite to represent Team Europe this September in London. Despite the excitement from fans, Federer still hasn’t returned to the tour and suggested he wouldn’t know what’s possible until roughly April, so it’s unclear whether this will materialize.

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4.) Halep’s Shot of the Month

Simona Halep is no stranger to winning the WTA’s shot of the month, and for January, she takes home the award once again. The point came in Australia during her 6-4, 6-2 win against Destanee Aiava. Simona narrowly caught the line after being pushed out wide to her backhand for a second time.

Replay Halep’s Shot of the Month

5.) Basilashvili’s Surprise Let

During the Sydney Tennis Classic, Nikoloz Basilashvili served a bizarre let, which hit the net chord, bounced off the net post, then finally into the service box while playing Andy Murray. Both players were unphased, but it was still an entertaining and unlikely occurrence, which is right up my alley. Enjoy!

NO WAY 🤯

You will not see this again! @nikolozbasilash #SydneyTennisClassic pic.twitter.com/gw7jN6DdUI

— Tennis TV (@TennisTV) January 12, 2022

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and have a great weekend.