“A day I will never forget”: Juan Martin Del Potro recalls farewell match and Djokovic’s unforgettable gesture

The former US Open champion Juan Martín Del Potro is marking one year since his farewell match in Buenos Aires, and he took to social media to thank both the crowd who supported him and his opponent on that occasion: the 24-time Grand Slam champion, Novak Djokovic.

The Argentine's career was marred by injuries, but he was one of the few who managed to give the members of the Big Three a hard time. Victories against Roger Federer, Rafa Nadal, and of course, Djokovic cemented his name and led to a career-high ranking of World No. 3 during an era dominated by just three names.

‘Delpo’ won his first and only major title at the US Open 2009, defeating Nadal along the way and none other than Federer in the final—who was on a streak of five consecutive titles at Flushing Meadows. The Argentine was only 20 years old and emerged as a name to watch in the following years, although injuries never fully allowed him to consistently display his maximum potential on the tour.

Despite the setbacks, he had more than a worthy career, totaling 22 titles—including the 2009 US Open and 2018 Indian Wells. He won a bronze medal at London 2012 and silver at Rio 2016, in addition to winning the Davis Cup with Argentina in 2016.

He finished his career with a record of 439-174, and a total of 54 victories against top-10 players. Also Del Potro achieved 10 wins against World No. 1 ranked players without reaching the top spot himself, an Open Era record.

The South American offered a heartfelt reflection on social media as the one-year anniversary of his farewell match arrives. Although Del Potro had not stepped onto the court for an official match since February 2022, it took him a long time to accept retirement. His final professional match was at the Argentina Open 2022, where he lost to his compatriot Federico Delbonis.

In the years that followed, Del Potro insisted he hoped for one last comeback, and there was even speculation about a potential wildcard for the US Open 2023, but his physical condition made a competitive return impossible.

Nearly three years after his last official match, Del Potro played an exhibition in Buenos Aires on December 1st to bid farewell to his audience. He did so with a luxury guest, Djokovic, who chose to travel to South America just after the ATP Tour regular season ended, delaying his vacation by a few days to accompany his old rival. Delpo's compatriots, Gabriela Sabatini (1991 US Open champion) and Gisela Dulko (former Doubles World No. 1), also joined the event.

“A year ago, a day I will never forget… Thanks to each one of you who was there during such a special moment,” Del Potro posted on his social media. “Your support accompanied me every step of the way and continues to accompany me to this day. I watch this video and the emotion comes back. Thank you all for the affection in the stands, at home, in every message, and thanks to @djokernole for being present and for being part of this journey. I love you very much ❤️ I always carry you with me.”

Just a couple of days ago, Djokovic recalled the exhibition played in South America during his visit to the F1 Qatar GP. He commented to ESPN that while he would have liked to attend the F1 event in 2024, his priority was with his former Argentine rival. "Last year, Delpo was more important than the event, but now, with a little more time, I can live this incredible experience," said Djokovic, who was attending the F1 event this year.