🔗 Share this article

Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he pondered quitting the sport due to severe back issues during the 2025 tennis year.

The 27-year-old, who has reached a career-high ranking of world number three, finished as runner-up to Novak Djokovic in the finals of the 2021 French Open and the 2023 Australian Open.

Currently placed 36th in the world following minimal competition post a early exit at the US Open this past summer, Tsitsipas indicated continuous medical care is finally showing positive results.

"I'm most excited lies in seeing how my training holds up under actual training concerning my injury," said Tsitsipas.

"The biggest fear was whether I was able to finish a match," the athlete continued, noting the injury had troubled him "over the last half a year or more."

"I would wonder, 'Am I able to play another contest pain-free?'"

"I became truly frightened after the defeat at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I was unable to walk for two days. That's when you begin to question the path ahead."

He also reported satisfaction regarding the present treatment regimen following the completion of an extended period of pre-season training completely pain-free.

His next appearance with the Greek team at the team event, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the Great Britain squad captained by Raducanu. The competition takes place in Perth and Sydney from 2 to 11 January, the week preceding the Australian Open.

"My main goal for 2026 is to not have concerns about finishing matches," he stated.

"It is incredibly encouraging realizing you completed a pre-season without pain – I hope it continues. I aim to perform in 2026 and at the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The crucial element is total belief in my ability to get back to where I was. I will attempt everything to achieve that."