It's always bittersweet when an illustrious career comes to an end. After 23 years on tour, Andre Sa, a Brazilian most know for doubles, has called it a career.

The 40-year-old turned pro in 1996 and quickly had some success in singles, winning 11 ATP Challenger titles and reaching the quarterfinals of Wimbledon in 2002. However, it's his doubles accolades that really stand out. He earned a gold medal in the 1999 Pan American Games, but it would take another decade before reaching his career-high ranking of world No. 17.

Sa has won 11 doubles titles and has reached the quarterfinals of both the French Open and US Open in 2004 and 2007 respectively, as well as the semifinals of Wimbledon in 2007. He played his last match in Sao Paolo last week with Thomaz Bellucci.

Now, with his career at an end, ATP stars such as Rafael Nadal took time to say congratulations and goodbye to the Brazilian. Highlights from his career are making the rounds, like this beauty against Pete Sampras.

Best of luck to @Andre_Sa77, who is retiring after 23 years on tour.



Here's a little moment to cherish...



????: 2001 #USOpen ???? Sampras pic.twitter.com/XKQW5uVnyl — US Open Tennis (@usopen) March 1, 2018

The Brazilian has earned more than $2.6 million in prize money.

Desert Smash: A Celebration of Celebrity, Charity and Tennis Unlike Any Other

The 14th annual Desert Smash charity tennis event is Tuesday, March 6, and there are many reasons to mark your calendar. Here are just five of those reasons, including the event's host, Serena Williams.

Desert Smash is the kick off to Indian Wells, which will be broadcast on Tennis Channel over the next two weeks.

*** STREAM DESERT SMASH LIVE on TENNIS.com ***

*** WATCH LIVE on TENNIS CHANNEL ***

*** PURCHASE TICKETS AT https://desertsmash. ticketleap.com/ ***