Romania, ranked 15th in the world, suffered a shock 6-2, 6-3 loss to Russia’s Alexandra Shubladze.

The veteran has put together an impressive string of wins and performances to reach the top 15 in the world rankings, a feat she has never achieved before.

Cirstea joins an elite club made up of Serena Williams, Venus Williams and Martina Navratilova, becoming the third woman in the past 40 years to finish a season ranked in the world’s top 16 at the age of 36 or older.

She is the top seed at the Hong Kong Open, which will be her last tournament, despite many pleading with her not to quit all year.

“I still have a lot of goals and areas for improvement and I have a plan to play every day.”

[I kinda selfishly hope she does],” said journalist Jose Morgado.

“Cirstea had such a great season. I still remember her early season win at the Napoca Open, her home tournament. I’m honestly excited to see her compete for another season,” one fan wrote.

Another added: “What a wonderful career Sorana Cirstea had. Whether Hong Kong was her last match or not, tennis fans will remember that match and the joy she brought to the court. Whatever happens next, all the best.”