It is unknown as to how much Juan Martin del Potro might have achieved in men’s tennis if it wasn’t for injury, but the Argentine is contempt with where his game currently is.
At the age of 29, Del Potro has already undergone four separate surgeries on his wrists. Including three on his left wrist. At a low point, he was only able to play in seven tournaments during the 2014 and 2015 seasons. Prompting him to seriously consider retiring from the sport.
Despite his setbacks, the 2009 US Open champion refused to give up and staged a successful comeback. The hard work has resulted in him breaking back into the top 10 this year for the first time since 2014. Comparing his current game to the past, Del Potro believes he is now a more complete player.
“I know I’m playing a different game than a few years ago. I mix it up with the slice, dropshots. I try to come to the net more often than years ago.” He explained.
“And I think I like the way I’m playing now. It’s more funny to watch. And I improved on other things in my game as my volleys and slices, and I think I have a complete game at the moment.”
Seeded eight at the BNP Paribas Open, Del Potro booked his place in the fourth round on Tuesday. Taking on David Ferrer, he prevailed 6-4, 7-6(3). Winning 87% of the points behind his first serve, but only managed to convert one out of 16 break point opportunities. He attributes his patchy performance to his backhand. A shot he has had to adapt over the years due to his injury issues.
“In terms of all my game, of course I would prefer to have my old backhand again, my old two-handed backhand. But this is the way what I play today and I have to agree with that.” He explained.
Regardless of his backhand, the world No.8 is happy with where he his game is at present. So far this season, he has won 11 out of 14 matches (not counting Indian Wells) and recently won the Mexican Open in Acapulco. His first ATP 500 title since October 2013.
“I think I’m a more complete player, because I can hit slices, I come to the net more often than years ago, and I can mix it up with my two-handed backhands, with dropshots, and my forehand is still working good.” He concluded.
Del Potro will take on countryman Leonardo Mayer in the fourth round at Indian Wells on Thursday.
