Reilly Opelka breaks record previously held by Del Potro in amazing Hall of Fame Open run

After spending over a year on the sidelines due to injury, American tennis player Reilly Opelka has shocked the tennis community with his form during his comeback at the 2024 Hall of Fame Open.

The 26-year old had underwent hip surgery over a year ago, before going under the knife for a second time to address his wrist issues. This further delayed his comeback, but the American was eventually declared fit to compete after a lengthy stay on the sidelines and given a wildcard entry to the Hall of Fame Open.

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Opelka surpasses expectations with semifinal appearance

The former World No.17 began his comeback with a three-set victory over Frenchman Constant Lestienne in the opening round, before upsetting top seed Adrian Mannarino in the round of 16. The towering American would go on to defeat compatriot Mackenzie McDonald in the quarterfinal, securing his spot in the semifinals of his first event after over a year on the sidelines.

By virtue of his victory, Opelka became the lowest-ranked player to reach the semifinal of an ATP Tour-level event. Currently ranked at World No.1188, Opelka is ranked lower than Argentine Juan Martin Del Potro, who was ranked World No.1042 when he made the final four at the 2026 Delray Beach Open.

Following Opelka's victory over McDonald, fellow American Ben Shelton took to social media to congratulate his compatriot.

"How nasty is @reillyopelka at this sport... how does someone do this after two years not playing?" wrote Shelton on Instagram.