Former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro bid a heartfelt farewell to tennis in an emotional exhibition match against Novak Djokovic in Argentina. This moment marked the end of an era for the 36-year-old, whose career was once filled with promise but marred by injuries.

A Tennis Legend's Emotional Exit

Tennis Career Highlights

In 2009, del Potro achieved his sole major title, winning the US Open. His powerful forehand made him a popular player on the court. He reached the final of the US Open again in 2018 but unfortunately lost to Djokovic. Throughout his career, he won 22 ATP singles titles and reached as high as number three in the world rankings. He also won two Olympic medals, bronze in 2012 and silver in 2016.However, his career took a turn for the worse after his US Open victory. A wrist injury derailed his progress, and in 2019, he seriously injured his knee at Queen's. This injury has left him with daily pain, as he shared in a video on Instagram last week. "My daily life isn't what I would like it to be. It's very tough. There are moments where I have no more strength," he said. "I'm not indestructible. I have good things, bad things but most of the time I have to fake it and put on a good face, but many times I feel terrible. Since that moment [after surgery in 2019], I was never able to climb stairs without pain. It hurts when I drive, it hurts many times when I go to sleep. It's been a never-ending nightmare."

Farewell Match Against Djokovic

In the farewell exhibition match, about 15,000 fans gathered to watch del Potro take on his long-time rival and good friend Djokovic. Del Potro was in tears several times during the match, showing the deep emotions he held for the sport. He won 6-4 7-5, and after the match, he shared a long hug with Djokovic. Djokovic expressed his admiration for del Potro, saying, "I do not know a person who does not love Juan Martin del Potro. Juan Martin is an example for all of us, and his greatest victory in life is being a wonderful person."

Tribute from Fellow Tennis Stars

Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Carlos Alcaraz, and Gael Monfils featured in a video tribute to the Argentine. Del Potro's victory over Federer in 2009 was a significant moment in tennis history. His presence on the court will be missed by fans and fellow players alike.