LONDON, ENGLAND - JUNE 19: Juan Martin del Potro of Argentina looks on during his First Round Singles Match against Denis Shapovalov of Canada during day Three of the Fever-Tree Championships at Queens Club on June 19, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)
Twitterati reacts as Juan Martin del Potro hints at ending career due to injuries
Juan Martin del Potro announced on Saturday that he could retire from professional tennis following the Argentinian Open in Buenos Aires. del Potro said in an emotional press conference that he was going through many difficulties. He also admits to understanding that his fans would expect him to return to the sport soon.
“This is one of the hardest messages I’ve ever had to face up to and communicate,” he spoke in Buenos Aires on Saturday.
“Everyone knows and hopes that I return to tennis. Possibly it won’t be like that and that it will be more of a farewell than a return.” He last played a tournament in June 2019 at Queens in London. His recurring injury prevented him from regaining full fitness ever since.
“The knee has been a nightmare. I’ve been trying alternatives and ways to resolve it for years and today I just can’t manage it,” he said. “I never imagined retiring from tennis anywhere other than out there on the court.” (h/t Hindu)
del Potro is a former Grand Slam winner and was ranked as high as No. 3 in the world.
Juan Martin del Potro turned pro in January 2005. His biggest accomplishment in his career was winning the 2009 US Open, defeating Rafael Nadal in the semis and Roger Federer n the final. His career has been affected by numerous wrist injuries on both hands. He returned splendidly and earned a career-high #3 ranking in August 2018.
In September 2018, he reached the US Open finals against Novak Djokovic. The 33-year old has won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics and a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics. He will surely be remembered for his hard-hitting and flamboyant style of play. del Potro was also well-liked by players and fans alike.
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