The Post-Court Life: 7 Shocking Facts About John Millman After His Emotional Retirement
The curtain closed on one of Australian tennis's most respected and hard-working careers in early 2024, but the story of John Millman is far from over. As of this current date, December 21, 2025, the former World No. 33 has traded his racquet for a backpack, embarking on a surprising new chapter after an emotional farewell at the Australian Open. His journey—defined by grit, a famous upset over Roger Federer, and a relentless battle against injury—now pivots to the world of business and education, proving that the fighting spirit he showed on the court is just as strong off it.
The latest news surrounding the Brisbane native confirms he has fully embraced life after the ATP Tour, quickly transitioning into a student role while reflecting on a 14-year professional career that inspired a nation. This article dives deep into the highlights, the emotional goodbye, and the surprising next steps of the man who became an icon of perseverance.
John Millman: Complete Player Biography and Profile
John Millman's career was a testament to resilience, marked by multiple surgeries and a never-say-die attitude that earned him respect from fans and peers globally. His profile is a study in how dedication can overcome physical setbacks to achieve major milestones on the world stage.
- Full Name: John H. Millman
- Date of Birth: 14 June 1989
- Place of Birth: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nationality: Australian
- Height: 183 cm (6 ft 0 in)
- Playing Hand: Right-handed (Two-handed backhand)
- Career-High Singles Rank: No. 33 (Achieved 15 October 2018)
- Career Prize Money: $5,519,421 USD
- ATP Tour Singles Titles: 1 (2020 Astana Open)
- Best Grand Slam Result: US Open Quarterfinal (2018)
- Professional Career Span: 2008–2024
The Emotional 2024 Farewell: A Body That Finally Broke Down
The most significant and recent news regarding John Millman is his official retirement from professional tennis. The decision was announced in late 2023, with his final competitive matches taking place in January 2024, culminating at the Australian Open qualifying tournament in Melbourne.
Millman’s retirement was not due to a lack of desire, but rather a physical necessity. He openly admitted that his body, which had endured numerous surgeries and the brutal demands of the ATP Tour, could no longer keep up with the required 11 months of high-intensity play per year. The 34-year-old’s final match was an emotional affair, marking the end of a 14-year career where he always "left it all out there."
His farewell was poignant, as he reflected on a journey that saw him rise from the grassroots of Brisbane tennis to a world-class competitor. The Australian Open, a tournament he played 11 times, was the fitting stage for his final bow, surrounded by his home crowd and the Australian tennis community.
From Arthur Ashe to the Classroom: Millman's Surprising New Career Path
In a move that surprised many fans, John Millman wasted no time transitioning into his next chapter. Instead of taking a lengthy break, he immediately swapped the intense pressure of the court for the intellectual rigour of academia. This swift pivot demonstrates the same disciplined focus he applied to his tennis training at the Queensland Tennis Centre (Tennyson).
1. The QUT MBA Student
Within just 12 hours of his retirement from the ATP Tour, Millman enrolled as a student in the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). This decision highlights his long-term planning and interest in life beyond professional sport. His experience managing his own career, finances, and team over 14 years provides a strong foundation for his studies in business.
2. The Iconic Roger Federer Upset
Millman will forever be remembered for the match that defined his career: the stunning fourth-round victory over five-time champion Roger Federer at the 2018 US Open on Arthur Ashe Stadium. He became the first Australian to defeat Federer at a Grand Slam since Pat Rafter in 1999. The four-set epic (3-6, 7-5, 7-6(7), 7-6(3)) was a display of relentless defensive play and mental fortitude that stunned the tennis world and propelled him to his only Grand Slam quarterfinal appearance.
3. His Only ATP Title: The 2020 Astana Open
While the Federer win was his most famous, his greatest achievement in terms of silverware was winning the 2020 Astana Open in Kazakhstan. This ATP 250 event saw Millman claim his first and only ATP Tour singles title, securing the victory by saving two match points in a thrilling final. This win was a culmination of years of hard work and validated his place among the elite of the sport.
4. The Career Regret: Missing the Paris Olympics
Despite his many achievements, Millman has shared a significant career regret that speaks to his deep sense of national pride. He openly stated that his biggest regret was not being able to make the Paris Olympics. Representing Australia at the Olympic Games was a major goal, and the inability to qualify before his body forced his retirement remains a source of disappointment.
5. The Battle Against Injury
Millman’s career was a constant fight against physical setbacks. He underwent multiple surgeries, including a significant shoulder reconstruction and groin surgery, which often derailed his momentum. This history of perseverance is why he is often cited as an inspiration, embodying the true spirit of a battler who consistently climbed back up the rankings after each injury layoff.
6. The Davis Cup and National Pride
A true patriot, Millman always cherished the opportunity to represent Australia in team events. He was a dedicated member of the Australian Davis Cup team, always prioritising national duty when his schedule and body allowed. His commitment to the national team further cemented his status as a fan favourite, known for his passion and energy on the court.
7. The Endorsement of the US Open Format Change
Even in retirement, Millman remains engaged with the sport's evolution. He has publicly approved of controversial format changes, such as the new Mixed Doubles format introduced at the US Open, showing his forward-thinking perspective on the game's future structure. This suggests a potential future role in tennis commentary or administration, leveraging his deep understanding of the professional circuit.
What’s Next for the Aussie Legend?
John Millman’s focus in 2025 is clearly on his education and personal growth. The QUT MBA program is a challenging two-year commitment, indicating his dedication to building a robust second career. While he has retired from professional play, his ties to the Australian tennis community, his coaching connections (including former coaches who worked with Pat Rafter), and his continued interest in the sport suggest he will remain a prominent figure, whether as a commentator, mentor, or business professional within the sports industry.
His legacy is secure: a hard-working, humble champion who proved that sheer determination can overcome physical adversity and defeat even the greatest players in the history of tennis. Fans will undoubtedly continue to follow his journey from the court to the classroom.
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