Juan Martin del Potro’s career has been marred by injuries that significantly hindered his ability to compete at the level his talent deserves. The Argentine tennis star, a former Grand Slam champion, showcased his exceptional skills, particularly during his prime, when he won the 2009 US Open and triumphed over tennis greats, including members of the “Big Three.”
However, del Potro’s journey has been fraught with challenges, particularly due to severe wrist injuries that threatened his career. These injuries necessitated multiple surgeries and forced him to adjust his playing style, especially his backhand, where he focused on improving his slice.
Despite these setbacks, del Potro demonstrated remarkable resilience. He made a successful return to the sport, highlighted by his victory at the 2018 Indian Wells Masters 1000, where he defeated Roger Federer in a thrilling final, saving two match points along the way. Just as it seemed he might regain his momentum, a serious knee injury derailed his progress, and he struggled to recover. Del Potro made every effort to return to the court, but his condition continued to deteriorate, leaving him in both physical and mental distress.
His last official match took place in 2022 against Federico Delbonis in Buenos Aires, where he was visibly emotional, receiving a heartfelt ovation from his fans.
A Special Farewell Match
Del Potro will have the opportunity to face Novak Djokovic in an exhibition match on December 1 in Buenos Aires, an event that carries significant emotional weight. The two players share a deep mutual respect and friendship, and Djokovic, a 24-time Grand Slam champion, offered to be del Potro’s final opponent. In an interview with Telefe Argentina, del Potro expressed his gratitude, stating, “Having Djokovic come is the most beautiful reward I could have. I have a very warm, very human relationship with him.”
Regarding his preparation for the match, del Potro noted, “The preparation for this match is like for any tournament, but with physical limitations. I have perfected the slice because I do my backhand badly because of my wrist, and Djokovic already knows that it’s not worth it to hit me.” He acknowledged Djokovic’s stature on the court, saying, “He’s the king on the court and whatever he tells me, I follow.”
Djokovic’s initiative to organize this exhibition match reflects his admiration for del Potro, who, despite facing a series of career-threatening injuries, remains a beloved figure in tennis. The retirements of prominent players such as Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Andy Murray, and del Potro mark the end of an era, with del Potro enduring perhaps the most challenging path due to his injuries.
Life After Tennis
Although del Potro has stepped away from professional tennis, his daily life remains challenging, as he continues to deal with pain. Recently, he opened an academy in Florida, but he struggles to maintain a normal lifestyle and relies on medication to manage his health. Del Potro aims to inspire young athletes with his experiences, emphasizing the physical toll of professional sports and the difficulties that can arise post-retirement.
“My daily life is not what I wish. I was a very active person who loved sports, not just playing tennis,” he shared on social media. “Now, when I’m invited to play football, I find myself on the sidelines, bringing the mate instead of participating.”
Del Potro has undergone eight knee surgeries with various specialists worldwide, investing considerable resources in hopes of recovery. Each time he underwent anesthesia, he held onto the hope that he would emerge free of pain. “But after two or three months, I found myself calling the doctor and saying, ‘this didn’t work; I’m the same as always,'” he lamented.
As del Potro prepares for his farewell match, he reflects on a career filled with triumphs and tribulations, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring future generations.
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