US Open runner-up Juan Martin del Potro faces an uncertain end to the year after medical tests confirmed that he has fractured his right patella bone.
The Argentine suffered a heavy fall during his clash with Borna Coric at the Shanghai Rolex Masters earlier this week. Shortly after the fall, Del Potro’s movement on the court was substantially reduced as he took a medical time out to have his knee strapped. He continued to play a couple more games before retiring from the match after the first set concluded.
“It’s a very difficult moment. I feel very sad. It’s a hard blow that leaves me without strength. It’s very difficult for me to think about recovery again, I did not expect this to happen,” Del Potro said in a statement about his injury diagnoses.
Del Potro is currently wearing a splint on his right leg. The Patella Bone is also known as the kneecap. It is a small bone that sits in front of the knee to protect the actual joint. There are numerous types of patella fractures and it is yet to be confirmed as to which one Del Potro suffered. Meaning it is unclear as to how long it may take Del Potro to recover.
“In the coming days, the doctors will evaluate the recovery process needed to return.” Del Potro’s agent, Jorge Viale, said.
As a result of the diagnoses, it is unlikely the 30-year-old will be able to play at the ATP World Tour Finals in London. The end-of-year tournament will get underway in four weeks time on November 11th. Del Potro has qualified for the event for the first time since 2013.
The setback occurs during what has been one of Del Potro’s best seasons of his career. He has featured in a total of six finals on the tour this year, including the US Open. At Indian Wells he won his first Masters 1000 title following a three-sets win over Roger Federer. In August he achieved a ranking best of third in the world.
Del Potro’s win-loss for 2018 currently stands at 47-13. He is on course to end the year in the world’s top 10 for the first time since 2013.
