Once a regular challenger for the ‘Top Three’ in most of the Grand Slams, Juan Martin Del Potro has not played tennis since featuring at the Queens’ Championship back in June 2019. He suffered from a fractured right patella which happened to him twice in nine months. He has undergone three knee surgeries with the latest taking place in Switzerland last August but still, he hopes to make a comeback very soon.
He has also been plagued with incessant wrist injuries which has hindered his career big time in the last decade but despite all the injury concerns the Argentinian wants to feature at the Tokyo Olympics. The 2009 US Open winner has a stupendous record at the Summer Games having won a Silver in Rio 2016 and Bronze in London 2012.
In a recent interview, Del Potro shared his struggle and how he does not want to end his story on such a low note. His knee is yet to be recovered fully but he still harbours the dream of playing at the Olympics later this year.
“I think this is my year. The Olympic Games are pulling me along, that is the motivation that I have. The knee is giving me a lot of headaches, I can’t close out my story yet. I feel like I have more to give and so I’ll keep trying,” said the 32-year old.
The Argentinian who was once considered as one of the threats to the Big Three in the sport has had his fair share of ups and downs. Del Potro shared how once he is all set to make a comeback and on another occasion he hardly can think of playing again.
“Sometimes I am animated (for a return) and other times it’s hard to envisage but I feel there is something inside me and so I keep fighting,” he said.
“I want to end my career when it is right for me and not because of my health.”
In a recent event held in Buenos Aires, the former World No. 3 was honoured as the best Argentine tennis player in the last decade for his achievements and accolades.
Although it will be very tough for Del Potro to return to action at the Olympics later this year, considering his spirit and love for the game he may just surprise tennis fans all over the world.
