Destanee Aiava Announces Retirement, Blasts Tennis Culture and Online Abuse
Australian tennis star Destanee Aiava has declared she will retire from professional tennis at the end of 2026, delivering a scathing critique of the sport's culture and online harassment in a powerful social media statement. The 25-year-old, known for her outspoken views, did not hold back in her assessment, labeling tennis as "racist, misogynistic, homophobic, and hostile to anyone who doesn't fit the mould."
Explosive Social Media Post Details Retirement Plans
In an explosive Instagram post, Aiava revealed her decision to step away from the game, describing tennis as "my toxic boyfriend" and questioning whether the sacrifices were worthwhile. She expressed feelings of being behind in life, stating, "I'm 25, turning 26 this year and I feel so far behind everyone else, like I'm starting from scratch." However, she emphasized her desire for a life aligned with purpose, creativity, and passion beyond the court.
Targeted Criticism of Online Trolls and Gamblers
Aiava saved her harshest words for critics and online trolls who have targeted her over the years. She issued a blunt message: "Fuck you to every single gambler who's sent me hate or death threats. Fuck you to the people who sit behind screens on social media, commenting on my body, my career, or whatever the fuck they want to nitpick." She accused the sport of hiding behind traditional values while fostering a toxic environment.
Career Highlights and Challenges
As a former junior prodigy, Aiava burst onto the scene as a teenager, reaching a career-high singles ranking of 147 in 2017. She made headlines by reaching the third round at Wimbledon at age 17 that same year. However, her career has been inconsistent since, with her current ranking at world No. 321. In 2025, she achieved a milestone by reaching the second round of the Australian Open for the first time, but she did not qualify for this year's singles draw and has not played competitively since January.
Reflecting on her journey, Aiava recalled her early days at Casey Tennis Club and the promise of her youth, noting that trust issues with the wrong people altered her trajectory. She left the door open for her 2026 season, hinting at a final chapter before embracing a new phase of life focused on fulfillment and authenticity.
