No joking, it was his ferocious forehand that he was able to reproduce repeatedly with such precision. It was a lethal shot, and I may even go as far as saying it was better than that of my all-time favorite tennis player, Pete Sampras’.
Juan Martin Del Potro, Humble Giant
Seriously though, I do not remember which match I was watching and his interview post-match. However, I do remember quite clearly why I was captured by this tennis player. It was his faith, his belief in Jesus Christ that made me stop and take notice.
His gracious attitude even despite the trials and tribulations that he had endured in his professional career. When it looked like he was coming back, he suffered another injury. Last night we did not see the best tennis from this great tennis player. However, we saw the best character of a man who embodies love and respect because he gives love and respect freely.
Tought Spot For Federico Delbonis
They are countrymen, teammates, and friends. Delbonis wanted to play his best, but he also did not want to play against his good friend. It was obvious from the strange errors coming off his racquet. Yet, to honor a friend, you play with an honest effort and let him maintain his dignity. The first set was a wash as Juan Martin Del Potro clearly was not match tough. However, the champion in him fought and found a way to make it competitive in the second set. Despite the losing score [1-6, 3-6], it was a positive step for Del Potro. What does this all mean?
Embed from Getty ImagesHelping You Gain Clarity About His Injuries
Let’s put things into proper perspective. He had his first surgery in May 2010 to correct a right wrist injury that caused him to miss 8 months. Between 2014-2015, he had three [3] surgeries on the other wrist [left]. He came back after that and everyone hoped, he was done with injuries. Unfortunately, in October 2018, he injured his right knee and that became the injury that has had the most detrimental impact on his game. Between 2019-2020, he needed three more knee surgeries on that right knee. Frankly, I was surprised he was able to run for some of those shots last night. The last time he played professional tennis before last night was in June 2019.
Embed from Getty ImagesWas That The Last Match For Del Potro?
I would say yes, but what do I know. I can say that it was evident that he no longer has the physical form required to compete consistently at the ATP tour level. He was clearly struggling to push off on serve, one of his weapons. His forward and lateral movement was compromised. At one point, he appeared to be in severe pain. His backhand is no longer effective. His forehand was misfiring and was half as ferocious as before. Still, through all this, the champion in him persevered and he was grateful for the opportunity to play again. Even if it was his last time professionally, he showed us grace and love. Thank you Juan Martin Del Potro for showing us that you can still live in this world in and from a state of love!
ALL IMAGES COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
