Juan Martín del Potro, famously known as “The Tower of Tandil,” remains one of South America’s most iconic tennis figures. Over a career spanning nearly 20 years, he captured two Olympic medals and famously clinched the US Open title in 2009. However, from June 2019 to February 2022, Del Potro’s appearances were limited due to a serious knee injury. On December 2 of last year, the 36-year-old officially retired in an emotional exhibition match held in Buenos Aires, where he played against Novak Djokovic. Del Potro expressed heartfelt gratitude that Djokovic agreed to be part of his farewell despite his hectic schedule, calling it a “crazy idea” that Djokovic embraced.
Recently, Del Potro hinted at a new direction in his post-retirement life. In an interview with Olympics.com during a visit to São Paulo for the Roland Garros Junior Series, he discussed the possibility of joining Djokovic’s coaching team. Reflecting on what keeps Djokovic going at age 37, Del Potro suggested that Grand Slam titles hold deep personal meaning for Djokovic. He emphasized Djokovic’s unmatched tennis prowess, extensive experience, and potential for future success—especially if he remains physically fit. Del Potro noted that another Slam win would be significant not only for Djokovic but also for the tennis world.
As for his current pursuits, Del Potro has been focusing on his tennis academy in Boynton Beach, Florida. He finds joy in coaching children and players of all levels but admits he’s not keen on returning to the travel-intensive life of a full-time coach. Still, he hinted that if Djokovic were to seriously ask him to join his coaching team, it would be hard to refuse—though he sees that possibility as something for the future.
Meanwhile, Djokovic currently works with Andy Murray as his coach, a partnership announced earlier this season and described as continuing for an “indefinite period.” Whether Djokovic would consider adding Del Potro to his team remains uncertain. Speaking about it, Djokovic said he’s content with his current setup but acknowledged the potential of working with Del Potro. He mentioned Del Potro attending several of his matches in Miami and shared his admiration for Del Potro’s insight into the game. He found their tennis discussions compelling and said, “You never know… I have a lot of time, many years to think about it.”
Djokovic also took a moment to praise Del Potro personally, calling him a great friend and someone he genuinely likes. He cherished the experience of playing the farewell match in Argentina and described it as memorable.
Interestingly, Del Potro defeated Djokovic 6-4, 7-5 in that farewell match in front of 15,000 fans in Buenos Aires. Their relationship is not just rooted in mutual respect on the court; Del Potro once described Djokovic as not only the greatest athlete but also one of the greatest individuals in life. In a 2024 social media quiz, Del Potro even ranked Djokovic above Federer and Nadal as the sport’s greatest-ever player.
With Federer and Nadal out of the professional scene, Djokovic stands as the last active member of the legendary “Big 3.” Yet he remains competitive, representing the older generation amid the rise of younger talent. As he prepared for the Madrid Open, Djokovic reflected on the generational shift, acknowledging that fans are still adjusting to the absence of icons like Federer, Nadal, and eventually, himself. For now, though, he’s determined to keep competing at the highest level.
He returns to the Madrid Open aiming for his 100th ATP title—a feat achieved only by Jimmy Connors and Roger Federer. Djokovic, already a three-time Madrid champion (2011, 2016, and 2019), sees a golden opportunity this year, especially with Carlos Alcaraz withdrawing due to injury. Djokovic is set to face Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi in the Round of 64 on Saturday, April 26.
Whether Del Potro ends up in Djokovic’s coaching box or not, the camaraderie and mutual admiration between the two legends continue to inspire fans worldwide.