‘Can’t Psychologically Accept a Life Without Tennis’ – Juan Martin del Potro Finally Breaks Silence on His Retirement Struggles

Former Argentine tennis star Juan Martin del Potro was among the top players of his generation. However, the immensely talented tennis star didn’t have luck on his side. At the peak of his career, the Argentine suffered a knee injury, which almost finished his career. In a career filled with pain and disappointment, he still managed to win a Grand Slam title, defeating the greats like Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.

Recently, the 33-year-old opened up about his injury-stricken career and his regrets for an unfortunate retirement.

Juan Martin del Potro speaks about his tennis career

Del Potro went under the knife four times in the latter half of 2019. The injury and recovery period kept him out of competitive tennis for three years. He finally made a comeback in the 2022 Argentina Open. However, he complained about knee pain and hinted at retirement. Even though he signed up for the Rio Open, the 33-year-old pulled out later. In this way, the Argentina Open became his last tournament. The Argentine was unlucky again to retire in a strange way where he couldn’t get a proper farewell. He recently opened up about the regrets he has about his tennis career.

“The last time I picked up the racket was in Buenos Aires. Later I did a couple of tests, but no: the truth is that the decision to play in Buenos Aires cost me a lot. And once I did that, and everyone saw the state of things, you know, that was a relief, a turning point in my life,” he said.

Speaking further about his unfortunate injuries, the 33-year-old added, “I can’t psychologically accept a life without tennis. I did not have a gradual transition to the after, I did not prepare. I have no idea what the other athletes did to live this process peacefully. I was number three in the world, then suddenly I broke on my knees, and here I am, with nothing.”

Read more: US Open Puts Forth a Phenomenal Farewell to 2009 Champion Juan Martin del Potro

It’s unfortunate that a talented tennis player like Del Potro couldn’t continue further. However, what’s even more disappointing is the way he had to end his career.

Frances Tiafoe lauds Del Potro

Rising star of American tennis, Frances Tiafoe is one of the biggest admirers of Del Potro. Tiafoe idolized the Argentine in his early tennis days, and his unfortunate retirement was hard for the American. In a statement, the 24-year-old expressed his disappointment over the sudden retirement of one of his favorite players.

The 24-year-old did well in the US Open this year. He made it to the semifinal, before going down against the Eventual champion Carlos Alcaraz.

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The biggest match of his campaign was the special victory against Rafael Nadal in his round of 16 match. Although he didn’t go all the way this time, a Grand Slam doesn’t seem too far from his hands now.