It was the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The women’s singles tennis field was looking strong as ever, boasting the likes of Serena Williams, Venus Williams, Angelique Kerber, and others. However, to the surprise of many, Monica Puig from Costa Rica went on to clinch the gold medal.

It was a tremendous campaign for Puig, who defeated the likes of Garbine Muguruza and Angelique Kerber en route to winning the tournament. Recently, she announced her retirement from tennis. Subsequently, Coco Gauff, Victoria Azarenka, and others paid an emotional tribute to her.

Coco Gauff, Victoria Azarenka, and others congratulate Monica Puig on an illustrious career

As Puig called an end to her tennis career, her fellow players wished her luck in future endeavors. French Open 2022 finalist, Gauff, said, “Definitely going to miss having you on tour but excited to see this next chapter!! Congratulations on an amazing career and thank you for being so kind always.”

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Further, Spanish star Paula Badosa congratulated her, saying, “Much encouragement Monica! Great career, you have to be proud.” Victoria Azarenka relished her time with Puig on the tour and said, “All the best Monica!!! You have always been a great competitor to play against and a great person to practice with! Good luck in everything you do next.” Additionally, Garbine Muguruza said, “The best is yet to come. Good luck Monica!”

Puig’s reasons for her retirement

The 28-year-old has been suffering from injuries over the past few years. Further, announcing her retirement, she said, “It’s not a goodbye, but a see you soon. Over the past 28 years of my life, tennis has been my constant. It has given me some of the most thrilling and memorable experiences I could have ever asked for. But, sometimes, good things come to an end. Today, I announce my retirement from tennis. After a tough 3 year fight with injuries and 4 surgeries, my body had enough.”

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While the 2016 Olympics gold medal remains her biggest achievement, her best showing at a Grand Slam tournament was a fourth-round appearance at the 2013 Wimbledon Championships.