Ancic retires from tennis

Mario Ancic has called time on his tennis career at the age of 26 following a series of injuries and illnesses.

The Croatian, who reached number seven in the world in 2006, announced his decision today in Split.

“I’m forced to quit because nature has decided it’s time,” he said. “My back can’t withstand the effort of professional tennis.”

Ancic had also battled knee problems, as well as glandular fever.

Ancic, known for his powerful serves, reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2004, but never won a major.

He won three singles titles and five doubles titles on the tour, while also helping Croatia to win the 2005 Davis Cup and taking bronze with Ivan Ljubicic in the doubles at the Olympics in 2004.

He now plans to become a lawyer, having completed a law degree at the University of Split in 2008.