Former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion Simona Halep has firmly stated that she is not interested in pursuing a coaching role on the WTA Tour at this stage of her life, citing a desire for rest and more time at home following her retirement earlier this year.
Halep, who officially ended her illustrious playing career in February 2025 after a first-round loss at the Transylvania Open in her native Romania, made the comments during an appearance at the WTA Finals in Riyadh. Serving as an ambassador for the prestigious year-end event, the 34-year-old Romanian was interviewed by Tennis Channel, where she was directly asked about the possibility of transitioning into coaching.
“Right now, no, I’m not thinking about it,” Halep responded candidly. “Probably in the next years. I don’t have energy to do this. This means to travel again, I just like to feel at home more time now.”
Her remarks reflect a common sentiment among recently retired players: the exhaustion from years of relentless travel and high-stakes competition. Halep spent over a decade and a half at the pinnacle of women’s tennis, amassing 25 WTA titles, including major triumphs at the 2018 French Open and 2019 Wimbledon. She also held the No. 1 ranking for a total of 64 weeks, finishing as year-end No. 1 in both 2017 and 2018.
After a challenging comeback in 2024 following a reduced doping suspension, persistent knee issues ultimately forced Halep to call time on her career. Doctors advised surgery to continue competing at a high level, but the Romanian chose retirement instead, prioritizing her long-term health and well-being.
Since stepping away from the court, Halep has expressed enjoyment in a more relaxed lifestyle, free from the rigid schedules and pressures of professional tennis. She has admitted to missing the adrenaline of match play but appreciating the freedom of unstructured days. “After competing at the highest level for a decade and a half, Halep enjoys simply waking up in the morning and not having many responsibilities,” observers noted in coverage of her post-retirement reflections.
While Halep has left the door ajar for a potential coaching venture “in the next years,” her current focus appears to be on personal recovery and family life. The Romanian has previously spoken about aspirations beyond tennis, including starting a family, though she remains philosophical about her future.
Halep’s legacy as one of the most consistent and resilient players of her generation—known for her exceptional defensive skills, counterpunching prowess, and mental toughness—would undoubtedly make her a valuable mentor if she ever decides to return to the tour in a coaching capacity. For now, however, the former champion is content embracing a quieter chapter, away from the spotlight and the demands of the WTA circuit
