Vasek Pospisil fought valiantly until the very end.
The Canadian faced a tough challenge in his opening round at the National Bank Open presented by Rogers, ultimately falling to Argentina’s Facundo Bagnis on Sunday, but not without a fair share of drama.
Having announced his impending retirement at the tournament’s conclusion, Pospisil took a medical timeout during the first set, briefly leaving the court. Although he made his way back onto the court, Pospisil appeared to be in considerable discomfort as the match continued.
Bagnis seized the first set with a score of 6-2, while the native of Vernon, B.C. struggled through the closing moments.
Yet, in a remarkable comeback, Pospisil turned the tide in the second set, grinding through the discomfort to claim three consecutive games and tie up the match with a 6-3 victory. Fueled by momentum, the 35-year-old erupted with a triumphant roar after clinching the final point of the fifth game.
Ultimately, Bagnis dashed Pospisil’s hopes of a fairytale finish in the third and final set, securing a 6-3 win.
On Monday, Tennis Canada confirmed Pospisil’s decision to retire after this tournament, bringing an end to his impressive 18-year professional career, which he capped off with a main-draw wild card at his home event.
He reached a remarkable singles high of No. 25 in 2014 and soared to No. 4 in doubles the following year.
Pospisil claimed the prestigious Wimbledon men’s doubles title in 2014, partnering with American Jack Sock, in addition to six other ATP men’s doubles titles.
While he competed in three singles finals, a title eluded him in that category.
He proudly represented Canada at the Olympic Games on two occasions (London 2012 and Rio 2016).
Additionally, Pospisil has been a loyal competitor for Canada in the Davis Cup since his debut in 2008, participating in 35 ties and achieving 33 wins, significantly contributing to Canada’s first title in 2022.
