Juan Martin del Potro Bids Emotional Farewell to Tennis with Exhibition Match Against Novak Djokovic
Former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro said an emotional goodbye to tennis in a farewell exhibition match against Novak Djokovic in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Del Potro, 36, captured his only Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2009, defeating five-time defending champion Roger Federer. However, his career was plagued by injuries, including a severe wrist injury after his major win and a fractured knee in 2019, which left him in daily pain. He played his final professional tournament in 2022.
Dubbed “The Last Challenge,” the farewell match was held at the packed Parque Roca stadium, with about 15,000 fans watching Del Potro win 6-4, 7-5 against his long-time rival and close friend Djokovic.
Del Potro, visibly emotional throughout the match, shed tears and shared a heartfelt hug with Djokovic at the end. In a symbolic gesture, he placed his iconic bandana, worn throughout his career, on the net.
“I do not know a person who does not love Juan Martin del Potro,” Djokovic said during the ceremony. “He is an example for all of us, and his greatest victory in life is being a wonderful person.”
Tennis legends Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Gael Monfils also honoured Del Potro with a video tribute, reflecting on his contributions to the sport.
Known for his powerful forehand and resilience, Del Potro achieved a career-high world ranking of No. 3, won 22 ATP singles titles, and claimed two Olympic medals—bronze in 2012 and silver in 2016. He reached another US Open final in 2018 but lost to Djokovic.
Despite his achievements, injuries have taken a heavy toll on Del Potro’s daily life. In a recent Instagram video, he shared the ongoing challenges he faces:
“Since my knee surgery in 2019, I’ve never been able to climb stairs without pain. Driving hurts, sleeping hurts—it’s been a never-ending nightmare.”
As Del Potro officially steps away from the sport, he leaves behind a legacy of remarkable talent, determination, and humility that will be remembered by fans and players alike.
