Juan Martin del Potro’s career is a story of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience. After battling severe injuries, the Argentine star bid farewell to tennis in an emotional exhibition match against Novak Djokovic in Buenos Aires. While 15,000 fans gave him the farewell he deserved, tennis legend Jimmy Connors raised a lingering question: Why didn’t Del Potro seek advice from someone who had faced similar challenges?
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A Career Marred by Injuries
Del Potro’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary yet deeply affected by injuries. After winning the 2009 US Open by defeating five-time champion Roger Federer in the final, the 6ft 6in Argentine was hailed as one of tennis’s brightest stars. However, injuries would soon define much of his journey.
Plagued by wrist and knee problems, Del Potro underwent multiple surgeries, including five operations on his knee. Despite these challenges, he made a remarkable comeback in 2016, winning an Olympic silver medal and a Davis Cup title. He reached the 2018 US Open final, where he lost to Djokovic, showcasing his determination to compete at the highest level despite his physical struggles.
Connors’ Perspective
Jimmy Connors, an eight-time Grand Slam champion, expressed disbelief that Del Potro didn’t approach him for guidance during his injury struggles. On his podcast Advantage Connors, the former world number one shared his insights, reflecting on his own experience with career-threatening injuries.
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“I blew my wrist out in 1990, and I came back stronger,” Connors said. “Why don’t players with similar issues come to someone like me, who’s been through it? I have the experience and know what it takes to recover as an athlete, especially a tennis player.”
Connors emphasized the importance of seeking advice from those who have faced similar challenges, calling it “common sense.” He noted that if he had been in Del Potro’s position, he wouldn’t have hesitated to ask for help.
A Grueling Journey
Del Potro’s path was filled with adversity. In 2014, a wrist injury sidelined him for nearly two years. Yet, his determination saw him return to win his first Masters 1000 title at Indian Wells in 2018, defeating Federer in the final. That year, he also reached the semi-finals at the French Open and the quarter-finals at Wimbledon, solidifying his reputation as one of the sport’s most resilient competitors.
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At the 2018 US Open, Del Potro’s perseverance shone again as he made it to the final, dropping just one set along the way. Although he lost to Djokovic in straight sets, his journey to the final was a testament to his drive and passion for tennis.
A Legacy of Resilience
Despite the challenges, Del Potro’s career remains a symbol of resilience. His ability to return to the top after numerous setbacks inspired fans worldwide. While Connors questions why Del Potro didn’t seek his advice, the Argentine’s legacy speaks for itself.
Del Potro retired in 2022 at the Argentina Open, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination. His farewell match against Djokovic was a fitting tribute to a career that inspired countless players and fans alike.
As Connors pointed out, tennis takes a tremendous toll on the body. But for Del Potro, the journey was about more than trophies—it was about proving that even in the face of adversity, greatness is possible.
