Del Potro Set For Return In Buenos Aires; Ruud, Schwartzman Top 2 Seeds

Juan Martin Del Potro is set to make a return to tennis, though it may not be for long.

The likeable Argentine will be on court in Buenos Aires where he will play his first match since 2019 Queen’s.

Now 33, Del Potro has battled wrist and recently knee issues, requiring multiple surgeries, and each return was marked with a soon-after setback.

Now, during teary press conference yesterday, it sounds like Del Potro is resigned to finishing his career on court in the very near future.

“I always overcame everything. I don’t want to close the door. I’m very excited because I love tennis,” he said yesterday. “Today I have to be honest so as not to give the wrong message, although in two and a half years I gave messages that were not in line with my reality.

“If I’m honest I have to say that I’m not here for a miraculous comeback like on other occasions. I know the limitations I have physically, and we’ll see later.

“It’s very difficult for me to play, especially on a day-to-day basis, beyond sport.”

Del Potro will face countryman Federico Delbonis in the first round in Buenos Aires.

“I’m going to play and I can’t wait to get on the court on Tuesday. These is why I had surgery last time, he said. “I couldn’t ask for another rival other than Fede, together we share the happiest days.”

Also in the field are top seeds Casper Ruud, No. 2 Diego Schwartzman and fourth-seeded Fabio Fognini.

Del Potro is expected to make his return on Tuesday. He is also slated to play the Rio event after Buenos Aires.

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