Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas has made a shocking revelation, admitting he seriously contemplated retiring from professional tennis during a debilitating battle with back pain that plagued much of his 2025 season. The former world number three is now preparing for a hopeful comeback, starting his 2026 campaign at the United Cup in Perth, Australia.
The Pain That Threatened a Career
In a candid admission, the 27-year-old explained how a persistent and serious back injury haunted him for six to eight months, casting a dark shadow over his future in the sport. His ranking has plummeted to 36th in the world, a stark contrast to his previous peak, following a season severely limited by pain. Tsitsipas has played only two Davis Cup matches since a disappointing second-round exit at the US Open, where he lost to Germany's Daniel Altmaier.
"My biggest concern was if I could finish a match," said the 2023 Australian Open finalist. "I would ask: 'Can I play another match without pain?' I got really scared after the US Open loss. I could not walk for two days. That's when you reconsider the future of your career." That frightening post-match experience became the pivotal moment that forced him to question his entire professional path.
A New Hope and a Pain-Free Pre-Season
Following multiple medical consultations, Tsitsipas has finally settled on a treatment plan that appears to be working. The most promising sign came during his off-season training block. He completed five weeks of preparation without any pain, a major victory that has reignited his belief and optimism.
"It makes great feedback knowing you had a pre-season without pain -- I hope it stays that way," he stated. "My biggest win for 2026 would be to not have to worry about finishing matches. I'm most excited to see how my actual training responds with regard to my back." Tsitsipas emphasized his commitment to a full comeback, declaring, "I put in the work. The most important thing is full belief that I can come back to where I was. I will try everything to do that."
Greek Spirit for United Cup Campaign
Tsitsipas will lead Greece's charge at the mixed-teams United Cup, where they are regular participants in the tournament's four-year history. He will be joined by compatriot Maria Sakkari, another former world number three also seeking a return to top form. The Greek team, known for its fighting spirit, is grouped in a challenging pool with Japan, led by Naomi Osaka, and Britain, spearheaded by Emma Raducanu.
Expressing confidence in his team, Tsitsipas said, "We are here again, with a good team and great spirit. We are prepared for war -- we are Greek. We're going big." This tournament in Perth and Sydney marks the first major test of his recovered fitness and his renewed determination to climb back to the summit of tennis.
