Germany’s former Wimbledon semi-finalist Julia Goerges has announced her retirement from tennis at the age of 31.

The Women’s Tennis Association was quick to pay tribute on Wednesday to the power-serving German, who won seven tour titles during her career and made it into the game’s top 10.

“Julia’s powerful playing style, exemplary sportsmanship and thoughtful nature made her a fantastic ambassador for women’s tennis and a fan favourite around the world,” said Steve Simon, chief executive of the WTA.

Goerges reached her highest ranking of ninth in 2018 and is still ranked 45th as she quits the game.

In a letter addressed to the game of tennis, Goerges wrote that she was “ready to say ‘goodbye'” after a 15-year pro career.

“I always knew how I would feel when it is time to say goodbye to you, and that moment has arrived. I am ready to close the tennis chapter of my life and open a new one, which I am really excited about,” she added.

Goerges reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in 2018, losing in straight sets to Serena Williams.

She was runner-up in the mixed doubles at the French Open in 2014 alongside Nenad Zimonjic and was a finalist in the Fed Cup with Germany in 2014.