In a recent press conference at the Rio Open, Juan Martin del Potro, the now-retired professional tennis player from Argentina, opened up about his daily struggle with pain following a career-ending injury. Notably, he also took time to praise the rising star of tennis, Joao Fonseca.
Del Potro, who officially retired from professional tennis in 2022, played his last ATP match before marking an end to his illustrious career in a commemorative exhibition match with Novak Djokovic in late 2024 in his home country. His career was tragically cut short by a reoccurring fracture in his right kneecap, first sustained during a match against Denis Shapovalov at the Queen’s event in 2019. Despite multiple surgeries, the injury was irreparable.
Reflecting on his retirement, Del Potro shared, “After bidding farewell to the sport with Djokovic in December, I sensed the end of my professional player journey and the beginning of a new chapter. I had always clung to a sliver of hope for a return, as tennis was my life. Now, I’m trying to come to terms with my new identity as a former player.”
The former US Open champion disclosed that his doctor had initially projected a return to the tour within three months post his surgery in June 2019. He was so optimistic that he even registered for three indoor tournaments at the year-end. However, he has been unable to lead a pain-free life since then, struggling with tasks as simple as climbing stairs.
In Rio, del Potro disclosed, “What do I need to be completely happy? To fully heal my knee. As of today, I feel pain every day.” He also expressed his fondness for Rio, reminiscing about his 2016 Olympic Silver medal win there, marking it as one of the happiest times in his career.
In the same conference, Del Potro also spoke highly of the young sensation, Joao Fonseca, who has been creating ripples in the tennis world. The Brazilian prodigy became the second-youngest player to clinch the Next Gen ATP Finals title in December 2024 and went on to defeat world No 10 Andrey Rublev in straight sets at the Australian Open. His string of successes continued in Buenos Aires, where he lifted the ATP 250 title, becoming the 10th-youngest player to win an ATP title and the fourth youngest since 2000.
Del Potro praised Fonseca’s powerful game and potential, but he also emphasized the need for emotional support for the young player. He observed that in countries like Brazil and Argentina, public opinion can swing wildly, from hailing you as the best to branding you as the worst, which can be tough for a young sportsman.
Fonseca’s journey in Rio Open was cut short by Alexandre Muller in the first round. However, he’s all set to participate in the BNP Paribas Open at Indian Wells, thanks to a wildcard entry for the event, scheduled from March 5 to March 16.