No regrets for retiring Ljubicic

Ivan Ljubicic may not have managed to light up the Grand Slams in the course of his 15-year professional career, but the Croatian insists he has "no regrets" after finally bringing his playing days to a close this week.

The 33-year-old, who was once as high as number three and for a long time an almost permanent fixture in the world's top 10, retired after a first round loss at the Monte Carlo Masters to Ivan Dodig.

Ljubicic cited recurring injuries and a desire to spend more time with his young family for his decision, after which he was greeted by a standing ovation by his fellow professionals in the locker room.

"It was a tough day for me," admitted Ljubicic. "I knew it could end up being emotional but I didn't expect it to be this emotional. It's the end of something beautiful for me."

Ljubicic won 10 singles titles in the course of his career, including Indian Wells in 2010, but despite playing in the main draw of 48 Grand Slams, he only reached the last eight or better on two occasions.

Instead, Ljubicic's career highlights came at Indian Wells, at the Olympic Games in Athens in 2004, when he partnered Mario Ancic to doubles bronze, and in the 2005 Davis Cup, when he led his nation to their first ever title.

"I think there are four things I'm most proud of - my Olympic medal, the Davis Cup, my number three ranking and the Indian Wells title. Breaking the world top 10 was also very special.

"I am very happy with what I achieved. I did a lot more than I personally expected - and I guess even the people around me didn't expect. But I'm happy that I did. I absolutely have no regrets."