Del Potro sends Roddick into retirement

NEW YORK (AFP) –

Andy Roddick of the US plays against Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina during their 2012 US Open men’s singles match at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Del Potro advanced to the US Open quarter-finals by sending Roddick into retirement with a 6-7 (7/1), 7-6 (7/4), 6-2, 6-4 victory.

Argentina’s Juan Martin Del Potro advanced to the US Open quarter-finals by sending American Andy Roddick into retirement with a 6-7 (7/1), 7-6 (7/4), 6-2, 6-4 victory Wednesday at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Roddick, whose only Grand Slam title came at the 2003 US Open, said last week he would retire after the tournament and the end came against the 2009 champion after three hours, 15 minutes when Roddick hit a forehand long.

After exchanging hugs with Del Potro at the net and keeping his head down as Del Potro spoke to the crowd, Roddick took the microphone and in an emotional farewell thanked the crowd for years of support since his career began in 2000.

“For the first time in my career I’m not sure what to say,” Roddick said.

“I have loved every minute of it,” Roddick said, his voice cracking as he paused to collect himself on the same court where he enjoyed his greatest moment with the US Open title nine years ago.

“Lot of ups, lot of downs, lot of great moments,” Roddick said. “I have appreciated your support along the way. I know I haven’t made it easy for you at times.

“Hopefully I will come back to this place someday and see all of you again.”

His voice cracked as he thanked his parents and again when he turned his eyes to the heavens to thank Ken Meyerson, his former agent who died last year.

Seventh-seeded Del Potro booked a Thursday quarter-final date with defending champion Novak Djokovic, the Serbian second seed who advanced 6-4, 6-1, 3-1 when Swiss 18th seed Stanislas Wawrinka retired.