Tennis Legendary referee Carlos Bernardes’ moving farewell to professional tennis after 40 years

This season has meant several goodbyes to tennis. And not only among players, but also in the world of arbitration, the historic Brazilian judge Carlos Bernardes announced his retirement from activity at the beginning of the year which took place during the Davis Cup final in Malaga. In total, he managed more than 8,000 matches during his 40-year career and met great legends, as well as the Chileans. Marcelo Ríos, Nicolás Massú, Fernando González, Nicolás Jarry, Alejandro Tabilo and Christian Garin, among others.

The South American referee said goodbye with a moving message written on his Linkedin social network account. “Over the last 30 or 40 years, tennis courts around the world have become my office and this high chair that I can call my office. Last Sunday I sat down for the last time and worked my last professional match,” he began by emphasizing.

Along the same lines, he remembered what the last few days were like. “The previous week in Turin was already very emotional and the week in Malaga was no different. For the first time, my wife, mother and daughter watched my matches and enjoyed the week with me. It’s very strange to think that after thousands of matches and 40 years of refereeing, this was the first time I could have it all.” he said.

He also had words of gratitude for the opportunity to say goodbye by winning the Davis Cup: “Thank you ATP for all the years I was able to be part of this sport that I love so much and thank you ITF for these honors working at the Davis Cup Final in the beautiful city of Malaga. “This event I thought I would never make it to the finals and to my surprise and happiness I was selected to make it in my last professional event.”

Finally, he appreciated the support received once his departure from the activity was known. “Also, I cannot forget to mention the amount of support, the nice words, the messages, the phone calls I received throughout the year. From officials of different sports to tournament directors, players from different eras, coaches, journalists, from all parts of the tennis world, but what surprised me the most was the great support of the public”, express.

“Very moving and happy moments that I will never forget. Tennis will always be part of my life and I will not move away from it. It’s not goodbye, but see you soon. THANK YOU EVERYONE,” he concluded.