Juan Martin del Potro played the final match of his illustrious tennis career in Buenos Aires in February 2022, returning to the court after nearly three years of battling injuries. This emotional farewell saw the Argentine compete in front of his home fans for the last time, concluding a journey marked by both remarkable triumphs and significant setbacks.
Del Potro, the 2009 US Open champion, enjoyed a resurgence in 2018, finishing the season ranked in the top five for the first time since 2013. He won his first Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells and reached the US Open final, where he fought valiantly but ultimately lost to his close friend Novak Djokovic. However, his career was soon overshadowed by injuries, leading to two knee injuries and a total of four surgeries.
In late 2018, del Potro fractured his right kneecap during a match against Borna Coric in Shanghai, sidelining him until February 2019 and disrupting his rhythm. His misfortunes continued at Queen’s, where, after defeating Denis Shapovalov, he sustained another knee injury that would severely impact his career. This injury initiated a painful series of surgeries and setbacks that hindered his ability to live a normal life.
After undergoing surgery in Barcelona, del Potro hoped for a successful recovery, but by January and August of 2020, he required two more procedures. In March 2021, he underwent a fourth knee surgery in Chicago, aiming to recover in time for the Tokyo Olympic Games. Despite his relentless efforts, his condition did not improve, leading him to enter the 2022 Buenos Aires Open to conclude his career. In a tearful farewell, he lost to compatriot Federico Delbonis, saying goodbye to the sport he cherished.
Since retiring, del Potro has opened up about the personal battles he faces daily. Instead of competing against rivals on the court, he has grappled with a body that has refused to heal, even after years of surgeries and treatments. His final match underscored the immense pain he endured, highlighting his determination to play despite the physical toll.
In search of relief, del Potro traveled to Switzerland for a fifth knee surgery, still dreaming of returning to competitive tennis. This latest procedure marked the beginning of another challenging chapter in his fight against pain. He spent two and a half months rehabilitating in a small town near Basel, but doctors soon recommended a sixth surgery, prompting him to travel to the United States for further recovery.
The former world No. 3 has undergone countless treatments, including over 100 injections, nerve burns, and tendon blocks. Despite initial optimism following his first surgery in 2019, del Potro has struggled to enjoy daily activities without experiencing significant pain, whether climbing stairs, turning in bed, or simply walking. His deep connection to sports makes his situation even more challenging, as he can no longer compete with friends in football or paddle tennis, often relegated to the sidelines.
As del Potro navigates this difficult journey, he stands at a crossroads, facing complex decisions about his future. Medical opinions vary on the necessity and timing of a knee prosthesis, with some doctors advocating for immediate intervention while others suggest waiting until he is 50. Born in 1988, del Potro is confronted with a daunting dilemma: continue living with pain or seek a path toward relief.
Currently, he takes up to eight pills daily to manage pain, inflammation, and anxiety. While he has relinquished his dream of returning to tennis, he remains committed to finding a way to live a pain-free life. Del Potro shares his story to connect with others facing similar challenges, revealing the human side of a warrior who has confronted adversity with courage and resilience.
His journey serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of life after sports, illustrating that even the strongest individuals have limits. Pursuing physical and emotional healing requires more than determination; it demands patience and support. For Juan Martin del Potro, the fight for a better quality of life continues, as he seeks peace and healing after giving up the sport he loves.
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