"I will start to train, see how my leg and my knee react and if I can do it or not"- Juan Martin del Potro to work on his fitness for US Open return
Former US Open winner Juan Martin del Potro recently stated that he is ready to resume training in order to improve his fitness in preparation for a return to the US Open.
The former World No. 3 was last seen in action in February 2022 at the Argentina Open. Playing in the Argentine capital, Del Potro lost to Federico Delbonis, 6-1, 6-3 in the Round of 32 tie. Following the loss to his compatriot, Del Potro broke down in tears amidst speculations of it being the last match of his professional career.
In a conversation with South American sports journalist Danny Miche, as quoted by We Love Tennis, Juan Martin del Potro spoke about his undying love for tennis and how it won't be a problem for him "to pick up a racket." He also added that he is working on his fitness.
"I love tennis, it will never be a problem to pick up a racket and see how I feel. The physical problem and my knee are things I work on every day. I will leave this window open, at least until the US Open as I said," Del Potro said.
The 34-year-old further revealed more details about his plans regarding his training.
"It is the most special tournament for me. I still have time, I will start to train, see how my leg and my knee react and if I can do it or not," the veteran added.
Following Argentina's semifinal win over Croatia in the FIFA World Cup, fans asked Del Potro about a possible return to the court should Argentina win the coveted title.
"I’ll update you in a few days," del Potro tweeted.
A brief look into Juan Martin del Potro's 2009 US Open triumph
Seeded sixth in the tournament, Del Potro won his first and only Major at the 2009 US Open. He kicked off his campaign with a convincing, 6-3, 6-3, 6-1 win over Juan Monaco.
In the quarterfinals, del Potro faced his first top 20 Seeded player, Marin Cilic. The Argentine veteran beat the Croation 4-6, 6-3, 6-2, 6-1. In the semifinals, Juan Martin del Potro beat multiple Grand Slam winner Rafael Nadal, 6-2, 6-2, 6-2 to book his spot in the finals.
In the summit clash, the Argentine beat Roger Federer in a thrilling five-set to win his maiden Grand Slam singles title. The final score read 3-6 7-6(5) 4-6 7-6(4) 6-2.