How Juan Martin del Potro’s Farewell Match with Novak Djokovic Came to Be
Juan Martin del Potro, the Argentine tennis star and former Grand Slam champion, recently shared the touching story of how his farewell match, set for December 1st in Buenos Aires, was organized. Although del Potro officially retired two years ago in his home country of Argentina, he will take to the court once again for this special occasion, and for his last opponent, he has chosen Novak Djokovic, his long-time rival and friend.
How the Farewell Match with Djokovic Was Arranged
Rumors of a potential farewell match for del Potro had been circulating for some time, especially after his appearances at recent tournaments. However, the plan became a reality during a special meeting with Djokovic at the Miami tournament. In an interview with Argentine newspaper La Nación, del Potro described the key conversation.
“One day in Miami, Novak called me and invited me to dinner. He said, ‘Delpo, I know you’re here. Let’s meet and talk,'” del Potro recalled. “We talked about life, tennis, and the young players coming up, like Alcaraz and Sinner. It was an incredible conversation. Novak asked me if the stories about the farewell match were true. I told him that the only way I could play it is if he were my opponent.”
Djokovic responded without hesitation: “Count on me for whatever you need.” Del Potro was deeply moved by Djokovic’s offer. “Knowing how packed his schedule is and how many commitments he has, it was very emotional for me to hear that he would come to Argentina just for me and the fans who love him. It will be a truly special moment.”
Reflecting on the Rivalry Between Del Potro and Djokovic
Del Potro and Djokovic have faced off in several unforgettable matches over the years, building a unique bond based on respect and admiration. Del Potro fondly recalls the 2018 US Open final, where Djokovic stopped him from winning his second Grand Slam. Del Potro’s only Grand Slam title came at the US Open in 2009, but he was close to winning several others. “That year in 2018, Novak didn’t allow me to repeat that success,” he reminisced.
However, Del Potro has other fond memories of their encounters. “I went to Serbia in 2011 and beat him in the Davis Cup, and I also defeated him in the first round of the 2016 Rio Olympics,” he said, adding that those victories over Djokovic are among the most cherished of his career.
Their rivalry history not only strengthened their mutual respect but also made del Potro’s farewell match even more emotional, adding a deeper dimension to this final chapter in his tennis story.
Battling Injuries: Del Potro’s Personal Struggle
Juan Martin del Potro’s career was marred by injuries, primarily problems with his wrist and knee, which prevented him from playing at his best for extended periods. Del Potro underwent a total of eight knee surgeries, many of which he kept secret until recently. “Everyone knows about the five surgeries, but I had three more in secret,” he revealed. His injuries were not just physical obstacles; they were emotional battles that shaped his career. Del Potro tried countless treatments, special diets, supplements, and therapies in hopes of being able to continue playing.
“My dream was to be number one in the world, and I knew I had a chance at it. But my knee just gave out,” he admitted. “I tried everything, even some crazy things. Imagine, after competing with Novak, Federer, and Nadal, my biggest concern now is how I’ll climb stairs or drive back to my hometown Tandil without pain.” This transition from an elite athlete to someone living with chronic pain was an emotional adjustment for del Potro. Nevertheless, he has maintained strength and optimism.
Desire for a Life Without Pain
While still dealing with knee pain, del Potro increasingly thinks about life after tennis. In his interview, he expressed a desire to achieve what he calls a “normal life” without pain, although that has proven to be a tough goal. He even considered a knee prosthesis, but doctors advised him to wait. “The doctors say I’m too young for a knee prosthesis and should wait until my fifties,” he said.
Watching his contemporaries, like Stan Wawrinka and Kei Nishikori, who are still playing, sometimes fills him with nostalgia. “I see them playing and wonder, if they can do it, why can’t I?” he shared. This bittersweet moment reflects del Potro’s feelings as he navigates life outside of professional tennis, where memories of his career remain strong.
The Significance of the Farewell Match
Del Potro’s match with Djokovic will celebrate his career, from his beginnings as a young talent to his triumphs as a Grand Slam champion who faced numerous battles both on and off the court. This final match is not just a farewell to competitive tennis, but also an opportunity for fans to see del Potro at home, doing what he loves for one last time.
For Djokovic, this match also holds significant value. It demonstrates the friendship and respect he feels for del Potro, recognizing how much the Argentine has contributed to the sport. By participating in this match, Djokovic not only honors del Potro’s career but also the friendships and rivalries that make tennis so special.
Del Potro’s Final Thoughts
As he prepares for his final match, del Potro remains focused on life after tennis. His goals now are simple: to find a way to live without pain, far from the physical challenges he once faced. Despite everything, del Potro is excited for his farewell match, grateful for everything he has achieved.
“I just want to live without pain,” he concluded. “To be able to climb stairs without feeling knee pain, to drive home without discomfort. After all those battles on the court, my goal now is a peaceful life.”
When fans around the world gather in front of their screens on December 1st, they won’t just be watching a match; they will be witnessing the culmination of an inspiring career. Del Potro’s legacy goes beyond wins and losses; it is defined by his strength, sportsmanship, and passion for the game. This farewell match with Djokovic is more than just a final serve – it is a celebration of del Potro’s life story and an opportunity for fans to say goodbye to one of tennis’ most beloved champions.
