Dan Evans concluded his professional tennis career at Wimbledon this week amid frustration over the handling of his retirement by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA). The 36-year-old former British No. 1 bowed out following a first-round defeat in the men’s doubles alongside fellow Brit Henry Searle on Court 15, a smaller venue than he had hoped for, and without a wildcard entry into the men’s singles draw.
Evans, who lost in singles qualifying earlier in the tournament, expressed strong dissatisfaction with how the LTA managed the final stages of his career. He criticized the organization for failing to communicate with him transparently and openly regarding his wildcard applications, calling the situation a “shambles” and saying no one had taken the time to offer a clear explanation. He described not receiving a wildcard for the singles draw at Wimbledon and earlier at the Queen’s Club as disrespectful, and said he had even been overlooked for a wildcard at the Ilkley Challenger, signaling his awareness that his opportunities were diminishing.
“There’s been no communication. Nobody’s had the minerals to come over and explain things to me,” Evans said during a press conference, adding that he believed he had done “plenty” for British tennis throughout his career. He acknowledged his emotions as he departed the sport, breaking down in tears during the doubles match while receiving an ovation from a small crowd, some of whom wore “Thank you, Dan” T-shirts.
The LTA’s decision-making process regarding wildcards was outlined by former British No. 1 Tim Henman, who serves on the All England Club board. Henman explained that only eight wildcards were granted for the men’s singles main draw, with six awarded to other British players. The remaining two were given to Grigor Dimitrov, a former quarter-finalist at Wimbledon who had suffered injury setbacks, and Stan Wawrinka, a three-time Grand Slam champion also retiring from professional tennis. Henman noted that the LTA presents recommendations to a wildcard committee that makes the final decisions independently and suggested that if more wildcards were available, Evans might have received one.
Evans acknowledged the significance of Wimbledon as his “home slam” and expressed gratitude for having played there, albeit not under the circumstances he had hoped. He also reflected on the positive moments of his career, including attaining a world ranking of No. 21, winning two ATP titles, and representing Great Britain in the Davis Cup.
The LTA was contacted for comment following Evans’s remarks but had not issued a statement at the time of reporting. Despite his disappointment, Evans indicated a degree of acceptance about the end of his playing days and hinted at new opportunities ahead.