However, this has not been Kudla’s only role, as he also played doubles alongside Desirae Krawczyk in the USA’s 3-0 victory over Czechia in the United Cup semi-finals.

Kudla took to social media following this mixed doubles victory to announce that it may have been the final match of his career.

Denis Kudla announces retirement from tennis at the United Cup

Following his mixed doubles victory over Patrik Rikl and Gabriela Knutson, Kudla took to Instagram to confirm that he would be retiring from on-court competition after the United Cup.

In this statement, the former world number 53 thanked those closest to him, “Thank you Tennis. This journey has come to an end.

“I want to thank everyone who made this ride something special for me, no matter how big or small the role in my life. Every memory will be something that I cherish forever and will always be proud of.

“I could have never imagined what this life could give me and where it has brought me. A blonde-haired, backwards hat-wearing kid from the DMV [District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia] going on to be a professional tennis player for 16 years! I am forever grateful to this sport I love.

“My Family, My Friends, My Wife, Tyler, My Baby, Rush – Thank you for the sacrifices you made to allow me to reach for my dreams and become who I am today. I love you.”

Kudla’s social media post was met with an outpouring of messages from colleagues including Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Ben Shelton and Jessica Pegula.

This brings an end to the Ukrainian-born American’s professional career that began back in 2010, highlighted by a career-high singles ranking of world no.53 and run to the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2015.

Denis Kudla to coach Reilly Opelka following United Cup retirement

While some players take time away from tennis after retirement, it appears that Kudla is not willing to do that just yet.

When speaking on The Changeover Podcast, Kudla announced that he would be coaching compatriot Reilly Opelka after the United Cup.

“I started with Reilly Opelka on December 1st, made a big decision. Has kind of flirting with it,” explained Kudla. “Anyway, was going to play till next year’s US Open and then I just knew that December in the off-season is usually a time when a lot of players are looking for coaches. I knew, I kind of wanted to go on Tour and because I just felt like I had so much information to give to be able to help somebody, you know.”

Kudla added, “I got a call with Reilly, and as I threw my name in the hat, not what I expected…we had a relationship for ten years, so there was no learning curve there and again I knew something with coaching is a lot of not what you know but how you deliver the information. Because sometimes it’s not rocket science.”

His new player has already made a strong start to the 2025 season, with Opelka beating Novak Djokovic en route to the final in Brisbane.

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