News today that Chinese tennis superstar Li Na has announced her retirement with immediate effect.

The two-time grand slam champion came to the decision having struggled with injury in the late stages of her career.

Today Li Na announced her retirement in the form of an open letter, paraphrased below (the full version can be read here); it is a testament to her likeable and friendly demeanour both on and off court. The 32 year old will be missed by players and fans alike: