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The tennis professional disclosed he pondered ending his career because of severe back issues throughout the season.

At 27 years old, the player once ranked as high as third globally, was a finalist to Novak Djokovic at both the 2021 French Open alongside the 2023 Australian Open.

Now ranked 36th in the world following minimal competition post a early exit in New York this past summer, he stated continuous medical care is finally showing encouraging progress.

"My greatest anticipation is to observe how my training responds during actual training concerning my back," commented Tsitsipas.

"My primary worry was whether I could complete a match," the athlete continued, noting the injury had troubled him "for the past six to eight months."

"I kept asking, 'Am I able to play in another match without discomfort?'"

"It was genuinely scary after the defeat at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I could not to walk for two days. That's when you start reconsidering the path ahead."

Tsitsipas further mentioned being content with his current recovery plan following the completion of an extended period of off-season preparation completely pain-free.

He is scheduled to compete with the Greek team in the United Cup, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the British team captained by Raducanu. The competition will be held across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, just before the Australian Open.

"The greatest victory for 2026 would be to not have concerns over completing bouts," he stated.

"It is incredibly encouraging to know you had a pre-season in good health – I hope it continues. I aim to perform during the upcoming season and for the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The crucial element is total belief that I can return to my previous level. I will try all means to make it happen."