I don't have to worry about being on time now: Li Na

Li Na with her husband Dennis

Chinese tennis ace Li Na bid an emotional adieu to the sport last week in a media conference where she often broke down in front of the Press.


Li Na with her husband Dennis

However, a week later, she can see the brighter side of her retirement.

Li, who spent an astounding 24 years playing the sport, told Sports Illustrated in an interview that now she can finally stop worrying about being on time and bother about her day's schedule.

"At least now when I wake up I don't have to worry about being on time or on schedule, which match I should play, what I should do. Now it's like 'Oh! This is my home! I know this place!'


Li Na acknowledges the crowd at her retirement ceremony during the Wuhan Open at Optics Valley International Tennis Center on Tuesday. Pics/Getty Images

"Also, I think my mom is happy because now I can be with her," Li said.

The 32-year-old was also excited about spending more time with her husband and starting a family now.

Two kids and two dogs
"When I decided (to retire) I was sad but also excited. Of course I was sad because tennis was with me for 24 years. It's very tough to say goodbye to your family.

"But finally I can be with my friends, I can be with my family, I can take care of Dennis (her nickname for her husband Jiang Shan) as well.

For so many years he did so many things for me. I think it's time to turn… I will try to have two kids and two dogs," she said in the interview.