The government has sent police’s Special Branch (SB) chief Md Shah Alam into retirement on Thursday. A gazette notification, signed by Abu Sayeed, deputy secretary of the Public Security Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, was issued on Thursday in this regard. According to Section 43(1) of the Public Service Act-2018, Additional Inspector General Shah Alam has been sent into retirement upon completion of his 59-year of service career, it reads. Read: 7 police officials sent on forced retirement Earlier on August 13 this year, he was appointed as the head of the SB. He served the Bangladesh Railway as deputy inspector general. He joined Bangladesh police as assistant police super on January 20, 1991. Read more: Three army officers sent into forced retirement, one dismissed

Tension on public university campuses due to students' protests or class boycott is nothing new in Bangladesh. But the reason behind the current deadlock at 35 public universities is something different and it is because of an indefinite strike enforced by teachers and staffers against launching of a new pension scheme. What is there in Prattya Scheme and why has this new scheme triggered protests? What the govt says about the new scheme: The Finance Ministry in a notification  on March 20 ,2024 announced that all the staff of the self-governed, autonomous, state-owned and  statutory or similar organisations and their subordinate bodies, who will join the service on July 1 2024 or afterwards, will be included in Prattya Scheme under the Universal Pension Scheme. “The future financial security of newly joined officers, employees on and after 1st July of this year will be guaranteed by participating in the "Prattay" scheme as they will be entitled to a monthly pension during retirement,” stated the finance ministry notification. Read more: University teachers’ protests against Prottoy scheme illogical: Finance Minister Most of the employees working in such establishments are covered by the gratuity and the Contributory Provident Fund (CPF). In that system, employees are entitled to a lump sum as a retirement benefit at the end of service, but no monthly pension. In the "Prottoy" system, 10% of the basic salary of the concerned officer or employee or a maximum of Tk5000, whichever is less, will be deducted from the salary of the officer or employee and an equivalent amount will be paid by the  establishment converned or institutes for participation in the scheme. Then both the amounts will be deposited as a quantity of that officer/employee under the management of the National Pension Authority. For example, after depositing the amount for 30 years from the institution or organisation concerned the person will get a pension of Tk 62,330 taka per month after retirement at the age of 60 years. In this case, for 30 years, the total amount of contribution paid from the employee's own salary is Tk 9 lakh (depositing Tk2500 per month) and the total amount of contribution paid by the concerned institution/organization is Tk9 lakh. The total amount of contributions for the organisation and related employees will be Tk18 lakh. If the beneficiary dies at the age of 75, that person will get a pension of Tk1.12 crore and more in 15 years, which is 12.47 times the employee's own deposit, said the ministry in clarifying the benefits. The government said it introduced 'Prattay Scheme' as an alternative to the existing system to provide financial and social security to the employees in their post-retirement life.  The employee registered in this scheme will automatically receive the monthly pension amount in his or her bank account from the following month after he or she reaches pensionable age, which will be notified to him or her through mobile SMS. In this case, he or she will not need to go to the National Pension Authority or any other office or submit any kind of proof. Read more: University teachers’ meeting with Quader postponed; strike continues Teachers' stance against it After the announcement about the scheme in March teachers rejected it and demanded their exclusion from it. They also observed partial work abstention for several days and threatened on June 30 that they would go on strike from July 1 if it is not cancelled.  As the government remained rigid and the Prattay Scheme became effective from July 1, the teachers of 35 public universities including Dhaka University, Jagannath University, Jahangirnagar University and Barisal University ----went on an indefinite strike under the banner of the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers' Association . Besides, staffers started a strike simultaneously demanding its cancellation, which created a deadlock in the public universities. What the university teachers say:  “Our movement is to protect the honor and dignity of the teachers community  of the university. Movement against interference in the autonomy of Dhaka University,” said a  notice issued by Dhaka University Teachers Association(DUTA) on June 30. “This all-out strike will continue until the demands of exclusion of university teachers from the discriminatory and degrading pension scheme, introduction of individual pay scale for teachers, inclusion of university teachers in the promised ‘super grade’ are met,” it added. Secretary General of University Teachers Association Federation and President of Dhaka University Teachers Association Dr. Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan said, the Prattay pension scheme is totally discriminatory. “It will give facilities to some and will make others deprived. This pension scheme degraded our dignity and made us think again about our financial matters and future generations.” Read more: Prattay pension scheme: Public university teachers’ strike enters day 3  If teachers are included in the scheme, they will be deprived of the facilities,he added.    “We are here not for our rights but for the rights of our future generation. If the teachers are included in the pension scheme, many will lose interest to come to this profession. Which is a threat to the future generation? We can't let our future generation face losses in such a way.” The teachers were scheduled to sit with Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Thursday afternoon but the meeting was postponed later.

In a heartfelt press conference on January 1, 2024 morning, Australian cricketer David Warner announced his retirement from one day international (ODI) cricket, ending another chapter to his illustrious career.  The 37-year-old veteran, who had already declared his exit from Test cricket, announced his decision, emphasizing the opportunity to spend more time with his family and explore franchise cricket opportunities around the world.  Warner, known for his explosive batting style and unwavering dedication to the game, highlighted the significance of winning the 2023 World Cup in India as a factor influencing his retirement from the 50-over format.  Read more: Bangladesh Men’s Test Cricket in 2023: Performance Analysis David Warner will retire as the sixth highest run scorer for Australia in ODI cricket history. He scored 6932 runs in 162 matches at an average of 45.30 with a best of 179 against Pakistan. He is the second, in terms of scoring the most centuries for Australia.  He made 22 ODI centuries, only behind Ricky Ponting, who scored 29 centuries.  David Warner Career Stats Table: Batting Stats Across Formats FORMAT Mat Inns NO Runs HS Ave SR 100s 50s Tests 111 203 8 8695 335* 44.58 70.26 26 36 ODIs 161 159 6 6932 179 45.30 97.26 22 33 T20Is 99 99 11 2894 100* 32.88 141.30 1 24 Reflecting on his Test debut against New Zealand in December 2011, Warner expressed gratitude for the pivotal role former Australia captain Greg Chappell played in shaping his career. The opener acknowledged Chappell's belief as a driving force behind his success on the international stage. While Warner clarified his retirement from ODIs, he teased a comeback for a potential return if Australia requires an opener for the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025.  The ICC Champions Trophy is the only title missing in David Warner’s fine career.  Read more: Bangladesh Cricket in 2023: Men’s ODI Series- Performance Analysis He stated his willingness to answer the call if playing decent cricket in two years' time aligns with the team's needs. Australia won the last Champions Trophy back in 2009 against New Zealand in South Africa. Although he is not available for the ODI and Test, the Australian cricketer also emphasized his eagerness to continue representing his country in T20 cricket.  Warner, who has been a vital part of Australia's T20 squad, expressed hopes of featuring in the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Caribbean and the USA in June. His T20 journey will continue as he marks the final chapter of his illustrious career. Following the conclusion of the Test series against Pakistan in Sydney, Warner is set to turn out for at least four matches with the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League (BBL). However, his participation in the BBL finals remains uncertain as he eyes an opportunity to play for the International League T20 (ILT20) franchise Dubai Capitals, later this month. Warner is currently seeking a no objection certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia to take part in the Dubai league, with the first game scheduled for January 21. Read more: Preview of 2023 Pakistan vs Australia 3rd Test Match Despite his commitment to T20 cricket, Warner confirmed his absence from Australia's three-match ODI series against West Indies in the upcoming month. Additionally, he might skip the ensuing T20I series to participate in the International T20 league, supported by IPL team owners. In his emotional address to the media, Warner expressed gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career. He thanked his family, teammates, coaches, and fans for being an integral part of his cricketing journey. The cricketing fraternity now eagerly awaits Warner's final appearances in Test and T20 cricket, celebrating the remarkable career of one of Australia's cricketing icons. The announcement took place ahead of Warner's 112th and final Test match at the Sydney Cricket Ground against Pakistan, where he bid adieu to the longer format of the game. As David Warner prepares for his farewell match, cricket fans worldwide will undoubtedly cherish the memories of his explosive batting, unmatched dedication, and invaluable contributions to Australian cricket in the 50-Over format. Read more: Bangladesh National Cricket Team’s Future Tour Program by ICC in 2024

Tamim Iqbal, the ODI captain of Bangladesh, has announced his retirement from international cricket. In a surprise move, last night, Tamim called for a personal press conference today and bid farewell to international cricket. “The match I played against Afghanistan is the final match of my career," Tamim declared at a hotel in Chattogram, his hometown. Also read: Tamim determined to play despite fitness concerns in Afghanistan Series Opener "I have been contemplating this decision for a long time and have discussed it with my family,” the star cricketer said. During the retirement announcement, Tamim appeared visibly moved, wiping away tears. "I believe this is the right time to say goodbye," he said. "I am grateful to many. I have often mentioned that I play cricket to fulfill my father's dream. I don't know how proud I have made him over the last 16 years." Also read: Every match is a tough match in the World Cup: Tamim Iqbal Tamim showed emotional distress while expressing these sentiments, frequently wiping his eyes. "I want to thank all my team-mates from the youth team to national team, coaches, BCB officials, my family members, and those who have been with me through my long journey. They kept faith in me,” the ODI skipper said. He also thanked fans for their support throughout his long journey in international cricket. In the past few days, Tamim found himself embroiled in controversy. Prior to the first ODI against Afghanistan, he had mentioned that he was not fully fit but would play the match and assess his fitness thereafter. This comment sparked controversy, with even the BCB president, Nazmul Hasan, criticizing Tamim's statement in an interview with a Bangla Daily newspaper. Nazmul stated that even Bangladesh's head coach, Chandika Hathurusingha, was unhappy with Tamim's comment before the match. Also read: Tamim Iqbal ruled out of Afghanistan Test Tamim has been grappling with various injury issues for a significant period. He missed the Test match against Afghanistan last month due to an injury. Moreover, he was not in optimal fitness ahead of the first ODI against Afghanistan, which took place on July 5th in Chattogram. "I have always tried to give my best throughout my career," added Tamim, regarded as one of the best openers produced by Bangladesh. "I am unsure of how much I have achieved. But whenever I stepped onto the field, I gave it my all." Tamim made his international debut in February 2007 against Zimbabwe. Since then, he has established himself as one of Bangladesh's premier batters. Accumulating over 15,000 runs in international cricket—70 Tests, 241 ODIs, and 78 T20Is—Tamim holds the record for the most centuries by any Bangladeshi cricketer, with 25 centuries to his name. Also read: Taskin ruled out, Tamim uncertain as Tigers set to take on Ireland in one-off Test He played a vital role in elevating Bangladesh's standing in ODIs. His retirement from international cricket, just a few months before the upcoming World Cup, will undoubtedly be felt by the Bangladesh team. The left-handed batter had previously retired from T20Is last year, but he had continued to play ODIs and Tests.  

French President Emmanuel Macron ordered his prime minister to wield a special constitutional power Thursday that skirts parliament to force through a highly unpopular bill raising the retirement age from 62 to 64 without a vote. His calculated risk set off a clamor among lawmakers, who began singing the national anthem even before Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne arrived in the lower chamber. She spoke forcefully over their shouts, acknowledging that Macron's unilateral move will trigger quick motions of no-confidence in his government. The fury of opposition lawmakers echoed the anger of citizens and workers' unions. Thousands gathered at the Place de la Concorde facing the National Assembly, lighting a bonfire. As night fell, police charged the demonstrators in waves to clear the elegant Place. Small groups of those chased away moved through nearby streets in the chic neighborhood setting street fires. At least 120 were detained, police said. Similar scenes repeated themselves in numerous other cities, from Rennes and Nantes in the east to Lyon and the southern port city of Marseille, where shop windows and bank fronts were smashed, according to French media. Radical leftist groups were blamed for at least some of the destruction. Also Read: France’s development agency signs deal with Bangladesh to support energy efficiency scheme  The unions that have organized strikes and marches since January, leaving Paris reeking in piles of garbage, announced new rallies and protest marches in the days ahead. “This retirement reform is brutal, unjust, unjustified for the world of workers,” they declared. Macron has made the proposed pension changes the key priority of his second term, arguing that reform is needed to keep the pension system from diving into deficit as France, like many richer nations, faces lower birth rates and longer life expectancy. Macron decided to invoke the special power during a Cabinet meeting at the Elysee presidential palace, just a few minutes before the scheduled vote in France’s lower house of parliament, because he had no guarantee of a majority. “Today, uncertainty looms" about whether a majority would have voted for the bill, Borne acknowledged, but she said “We cannot gamble on the future of our pensions. That reform is necessary.” Borne prompted boos from the opposition when she said her government is accountable to the parliament. Lawmakers can try to revoke the changes through no-confidence motions, she said. “There will actually be a proper vote and therefore the parliamentary democracy will have the last say,” Borne said. She said in an interview Thursday night on the TV station TF1 that she was not angry when addressing disrespectful lawmakers but “very shocked.” “Certain (opposition lawmakers) want chaos, at the Assembly and in the streets,” she said. Opposition lawmakers demanded the government step down. One Communist lawmaker called the presidential power a political “guillotine.” Others called it a “denial of democracy” that signals Macron’s lack of legitimacy. Marine Le Pen said her far-right National Rally party would file a no-confidence motion, and Communist lawmaker Fabien Roussel said such a motion is “ready” on the left. “The mobilization will continue,” Roussel said. “This reform must be suspended.” The leader of The Republicans, Eric Ciotti, said his party won’t “add chaos to chaos” by supporting a no-confidence motion, but some of his fellow conservatives at odds with the party’s leadership could vote individually. A no-confidence motion, expected early next week, needs approval by more than half the Assembly. If it passes — which would be a first since 1962 — the government would have to resign. Macron could reappoint Borne if he chooses, and a new Cabinet would be named. If no-confidence motions don't succeed, the pension bill would be considered adopted. The Senate adopted the bill earlier Thursday in a 193-114 vote, a tally largely expected since the conservative majority of the upper house favored the changes. Raising the retirement age will make workers put more money into the system, which the government says is on course to run a deficit. Macron has promoted the pension changes as central to his vision for making the French economy more competitive. The reform also would require 43 years of work to earn a full pension. Leftist leader Jean-Luc Melenchon told the crowd at the Concorde that Macron has gone “over the heads of the will of the people.” Members of Melenchon’s France Unbowed party were foremost among the lawmakers singing the Marseillese in an attempt to thwart the prime minister. Economic challenges have prompted widespread unrest across Western Europe, where many countries, like France, have had low birthrates, leaving fewer young workers to sustain pensions for retirees. Spain’s leftist government joined with labor unions Wednesday to announce a “historic” deal to save its pension system. Spain's Social Security Minister José Luis Escrivá said the French have a very different, unsustainable model and “has not addressed its pension system for decades." Spain's workers already must stay on the job until at least 65 and won’t be asked to work longer — instead, their new deal increases employer contributions for higher-wage earners.

After retirement, you can relax and enjoy your free time. But it does not have to be only relaxation! From travelling to volunteering, there are plenty of amusing, interesting, and meaningful things to do once you have got rid of your daily work schedule. So don't spend post-retirement life in boredom; rather make plans and explore. Let's take a look at some awesome things to try after retirement to feel every bit of life again. 10 Fun and Serious Things to Do After Retirement Explore Local Area If endless days of reading books and watching TV can give you ultimate happiness after retirement, that is great! However, if you are looking for something more interactive and social, consider exploring your local area.  There is no need to go far or spend a huge amount of money. Often there are plenty of things to do right in your town or city. Check out attractions you have never had time to visit before. Considering your health status choose to walk, hike, bike, or ride. You can also attend a cultural event, fair, or something that coincides with your passion. The possibilities are endless.  Read More: 9 Best Countries to Retire Abroad Wherever you choose to go, stepping out of the home will encourage you to enjoy the golden years of life. Spend Time with Family After working for decades, retirement is a time to relax and enjoy your hard-earned free time finally. However, retirement can also be a time of isolation and loneliness for many people. Seniors who spend more time with family and friends tend to stay happier and healthier. Social interaction helps to keep the mind sharp, reduces stress levels, and boosts immunity.  In addition, spending time with loved ones can help to prevent feelings of depression and anxiety. So if you're looking for ways to improve your health after retirement, spending more time with family should be at the top of your list. You will not only be happier and healthier, but you also will build memories that will last a lifetime. Read More: Hassle-free travel tips for senior citizens Join Gym Retirement can be a time of immense transition. Suddenly, you have a lot more free time on your hands, and you may find yourself struggling to stay active and engaged. One great way to counter this issue is to join a gym. By joining a local gym, you will be able to take advantage of all the great equipment and facilities. Besides, you will also have the chance to meet new people and stay connected to your community. And, of course, there are health benefits. Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing your risk of chronic diseases, and improving your mental health. Get Involved in A Sport For many people, retirement marks the end of an active lifestyle. But it doesn't have to be that way. There are plenty of reasons to stay involved in sports after retirement, especially if you want to stay fit and healthy.  Read More: 5 Sundarbans eco resorts to experience world’s largest mangrove forest First of all, participating in sports can help to reduce the risk of developing obesity or other chronic health conditions. In addition, physical exercise can boost brain function and improve mental health. Moreover, playing sports can be a great way to socialize and make new friends. Conside the status of your health to choose the right type of sport in your post-retirement life. Pick sports that you will love to continue.  Engage in Philanthropic Work A life of leisure after retirement may sound appealing. However, many people find their post-retirement life boring without a sense of purpose. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and active in retirement.  Read More: Top 10 Historic Places, Landmarks in Dhaka One of the most rewarding options for retirees is getting involved with philanthropic work. Philanthropy can take many forms, from volunteering at a local humanitarian initiative to donating money to causes that are important to you.  Not only does philanthropic work help others, but also it can be deeply satisfying for the person doing the work. It provides a sense of purpose and connection that can help to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness. Mentor Others Retirement can also be an opportunity to feel valued by mentoring others. By sharing your knowledge and experience, you can help others to achieve their goals and fulfill their potential.  Read More: How to get an Indian Tourist Visa from Bangladesh In addition, mentoring can help to keep your mind active and engaged, preventing boredom and stress. What’s more, as an added bonus, it can be extremely gratifying to see someone succeed with your guidance. Start a Small Business You may start a small business related to your experience to spend active and meaningful time after retirement. As an experienced professional, you have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed. Also, you have the time to devote to making your business a success.  Additionally, you likely have a network of contacts that can help you get started. Starting a small business can provide you with a sense of purpose and satisfaction in your golden years. It’s not always about the money, it's about utilizing your own skills and talent for something good.  Read More: Qatar Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Amazing Things to Do And, of course, you can spend the money earned through the business for diverse purposes like traveling, treatment, family care, etc. Find a Part Time Job After retirement, many people find themselves with more free time than they know what to do with. While some enjoy spending their days relaxing or pursuing hobbies, others quickly become bored and restless. For these people, finding a part-time job can be the perfect solution.  In addition to providing a much-needed source of income, a part-time job can also help to structure your day and give you a sense of purpose. Working in retirement can be a great way to meet new people and stay active. Read More: Bhutan Travel Guide: Best places to visit, interesting things to do Focus on Religion Almost all of us believe in some religion or the other. Practicing religion gives us peace of mind and helps us to follow the right path. You may not have actively performed or done the religious activity before retirement because of time availability or scope.  Now that you have a lot of time on your hands, you can devote a lot of time to religious activities. Read religious books, and find the underlying meaning. Regularly visit places or travel to religious events. Learn a New Skill Many people view retirement as a time to rest and relax after years of working hard. However, retirement can also be an opportunity to learn new skills and pursue interests that may have been neglected during one’s career. Learning a new skill can help to keep the mind sharp and pass a good time. It can also be a great way to meet new people and make friends. Read More: Maldives Travel Guide: Best places to visit, recreational things to do Final Words Retirement is a time to enjoy your hobbies and relax after years of working hard. It is a great time to focus on your life and figure out what you want to do with the rest of it. No matter what you end up doing, make sure that you are enjoying yourself and living life to the fullest. Whether you are looking for a fun activity or something more serious, check out our above-mentioned list of things to do after retirement and find the perfect fit for you.

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said on Thursday that police officers are being sent on retirement for their lack of skills and patriotism. The minister made the remarks in reply to a question while attending a dialogue organised by Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) at the secretariat. After removing Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mokbul Hossain, the government has recently sent five police officers to retirement. Read more: 2 Additional DIGs sent on compulsory retirement The minister said that after 25 years of service many officials lose their momentum in terms of skills and patriotism, and authorities then take steps. “This is a routine procedure,” he said. The minister, however, said that the trend of lacking skills is not alarming. “There is no point in occupying a post if someone lacks skills,” he said. On October 31, Md Alamgir Alam, Additional DIG of Police (crime investigation department), and Md Mahbub Hakim, Additional DIG of Tourist Police, were sent on compulsory retirement according to section 45 of Public Service Act, 2018. read more: Three SPs sent on compulsory retirement On October 18, three other police officers of the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) were sent on compulsory retirement.

Md Mokbul Hossain, who was sent on early retirement yesterday from the post of Secretary to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, today said that he has never met BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman. “I have never compromised my morality and I’m not prepared for this situation,” he said while talking to reporters at the Secretariat today. He came up with the remarks a day after he was sent on early retirement. A gazette notification was issued yesterday in this regard. Replying to a question regarding his visit to London, earlier this year, Mokbul said, “We went there (London) in March as a team. Why are you raising this question now? Ashiqunnabi was in charge of press duties and if you (journalists) ask him, it would be clear.” He also said, “If it is proven that I was in contact with BNP, please put me on the dock. It is impossible for a person who holds Bangabandhu’s ideals close to his heart, to have any connection with BNP.” “I have no idea why I have been sent on early retirement but the government has the right to do it.” Mokbul further said, “As a journalist you can investigate it. I have no involvement with any anti-government activities and if there is any, you (journalists) can publish it. I have no objections.” Asked whether he has developed any distance with the information minister, Mokbul said that there will be a lot of talk and it will be better to not rely on those words alone. “We worked together and I respect him,” he said. ‘NO IDEA ABOUT THIS, PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION MINISTRY CAN EXPLAIN’ Meanwhile, Information Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud said, “I have seen the gazette notification yesterday but I have no idea about it. Public Administration Ministry can explain this.” Hasan was talking to reporters after a views-exchange meeting with television artists, directors and producers at his office. “Such incidents have occurred before and the government can send any secretary on compulsory retirement and the Public Administration Ministry can explain it properly,” Hasan said. According to the notification issued on Sunday, Mokbul has been sent on retirement from government service in the “public interest in accordance with Section 45 of the Government Employment Act, 2018”. Mokbul joined as the secretary of the Information Ministry on May 31, 2021. Before joining as the Secretary to the Information Ministry, he was a registrar at the Directorate of Joint Capital Companies and Firms. He also served as additional secretary of the Jute and Textile Ministry. He joined Bangladesh Civil Service as a 10th batch officer of the BCS (Administration) cadre in 1991.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed will go on retirement on September 30. A gazette notification in this regard was issued by the Home Ministry's Public Security Division on Thursday. Benazir will reach his retirement age at 59 on September 30, the gazette added. He will be on post-retirement leave (PRL) from October 1 this year to September 30 next year. He will be entitled to retirement and post-retirement leave benefits as per government rules, it added. Benazir, who also served as director general of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), was appointed Bangladesh's police chief on April 8 in 2020.

Roger Federer is retiring from professional tennis at age 41 after a series of knee operations, closing a career in which he won 20 Grand Slam titles, finished five seasons ranked No. 1 and helped create a golden era of men’s tennis with rivals Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Federer posted what he called a “bittersweet decision” via social media on Thursday, less than a week after 23-time major champion Serena Williams played what is expected to the last match of her career. Combined, the exits by two of the greatest athletes in their sport’s history represent a significant turning of the page. “As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I’ve worked hard to return to full competitive form,” Federer wrote on Twitter. “But I also know my body’s capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear.” Federer has not competed since Wimbledon in July 2021, and so, in that sense, his news is not all that surprising. But he had appeared at an event marking the 100-year anniversary of Centre Court at the All England Club this July and said he hoped to come back to play there “one more time.” He also had said he would return to tournament action in his home country at the Swiss Indoors in October. In Thursday’s announcement, Federer said his farewell event will be the Laver Cup in London next week. That is a team event run by his management company. Federer is married and he and his wife, Mirka — a tennis player, too; they met as athletes at an Olympics — have two sets of twins. Read: Federer stunned by 55th-ranked Millman in US Open 4th Round He leaves with a total of 103 tour-level titles on his substantial resume and 1,251 wins in singles matches, both second only to Jimmy Connors in the Open era, which began in 1968. Federer’s records include being the oldest No. 1 in ATP rankings history — he returned to the top spot at 36 in 2018 — and most consecutive weeks there (his total weeks mark was eclipsed by Djokovic). When Federer won his first Grand Slam title at Wimbledon in 2003, the men’s record for most was held by Pete Sampras, who had won his 14th at the U.S. Open the year before in what turned out to be the last match of the American’s career. Federer would go on to blow way past that, ending up with 20 by winning eight championships at Wimbledon, six at the Australian Open, five at the U.S. Open and one at the French Open. His 2009 trophy at Roland Garros allowed Federer to complete a career Grand Slam. His serving, forehand, footwork and attacking style will all be remembered. Also unforgettable were his matches against younger rivals Nadal, 36, and Djokovic, 35, who both equalled, then surpassed, Federer’s Slam total and are still winning titles at the sport’s four biggest tournaments. Nadal now leads the count with 22, one ahead of Djokovic. “I was lucky enough to play so many epic matches that I will never forget,” Federer said in Thursday’s announcement. Also read: Federer marks 100th match on Rod Laver Arena with 3-set win Addressing his “competitors on the court” — although not by name — he wrote: “We pushed each other, and together we took tennis to new levels.” Federer’s last match anywhere came on July 7, 2021, when he lost at Centre Court in the Wimbledon quarterfinals to Hubert Hurkacz 6-3, 7-6 (4), 6-0. Soon after, Federer had surgery to repair damage to his meniscus and cartilage in his right knee — his third operation on that knee in a span of 1 1/2 years. “Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt,” Federer said Thursday, “and now I must recognize when it is time to end my competitive career.”