By Richard Pagliaro | Thursday, December 22, 2022
Juan Martin del Potro dropped a major comeback hint on social media.
The 2009 US Open champion, who bid a tearful farewell in Buenos Aires last February, suggested he could return to tennis in 2023.
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During Argentina's triumphant run to the World Cup last week, del Potro was asked about his status on Twitter.
Prior to Argentina's semifinal win over Croatia, del Potro was asked if Argentina won the World Cup, would he comeback to play the 2023 US Open?
"Dale, I do my best," del Potro replied.
Responding to that exchange, the ATP Twitter account sent this emoji to which del Potro said "I'll update you in a few days!"
While a few affirmative phrases and some emojis obviously don't constitute a comeback commitment, the fact that the 34-year-old del Potro is even considering a possible return—not to mention his use of the exclamation point—suggest perhaps there will be good news coming.
The former world No. 3 moved the tennis world to tears when he lay his signature headband on the net in a symbolic farewell following his opening-round loss to compatriot Federico Delbonis in Buenos Aires last February.
Del Potro said then he'd like to play again, but chronic knee problems had left him in pain and unable to train. The man nicknamed Tower of Tandil, who has undergone four wrist surgeries (all prior to 2015) and another four knee surgeries (since 2019), said he has had trouble sleeping because of the stinging pain.
"I've been sleeping with pain for two-and-a-half years,” del Potro said last February. “I used to drive three-and-a-half hours to Tandil and now I have to stop to stretch my leg. I don't like it, but it's what I have to do. My fight is about health and winning quality of life.”
Has his knee improved enough to the point del Potro is considering giving it another go?
We'll have to wait and see for his forthcoming announcement.
Earlier this month, del Potro hit the court with hos Sir Richard Branson at Necker Cup and shared images on social media.
Photo credit: AP