Andy Roddick of the U.S. acknowledges the crowd after his defeat to Juan Martin Del Potro of Argentina in their men's singles match at the U.S. Open in New York September 5, 2012.ADAM HUNGER/Reuters
Twitter tributes to Andy Roddick, the U.S. tennis star who played the last match of his career on Wednesday at the US Open:
"@andyroddick I shed a tear for you. Thank you for all the years of commitment to excellence. Going to miss it."
- Tiger Woods
"Andy, my friend-- you are a winner. Life goes on. Live it to the fullest."
- Jimmy Connors
"@andyroddick I miss my friend already."
- Serena Williams
"Thanks @andyroddick for being the face of USA #tennis. Love you. Good luck with your next chapter!"
- Billie Jean King
"That speech from @andyroddick reminded me of the farewell that Agassi gave several years ago. He gave it all at all times."
- Tennis coaching guru Nick Bollettieri
"World number 1, Davis Cup Winner,nine years in a row top 10, 32 ATP titles, Grand Slam Champion. @andyroddick So much #RESPECT."
- Serbia top 10 player Janko Tipsarevic
"American tennis is losing one of its greatest champions and faces of the sport today. Best of luck to @andyroddick in the next chapter!"
- US women's player Lisa Raymond
"In tears listening to @andyroddick right now...what an unbelieble careear and personality"
- Argentina women's player Gisela Dulko
"Congratulation @andyroddick for your great career and for the great person you've been during the tour!"
- Argentina top 20 player Juan Monaco