Juan Martin del Potro bid farewell to his tennis career after beating Novak Djokovic 6-4, 7-5 in an exhibition match in front of his home crowd. Throughout his career, he has delivered several unforgettable performances against the greatest players of his era. Here are the top 5 matches that defined del Potro’s legacy:
5. London Olympics 2012 Bronze Medal Match vs. Novak Djokovic
After a heartbreaking loss to Roger Federer in the semifinals, del Potro bounced back to claim the Bronze Medal at the 2012 London Olympics by defeating Novak Djokovic, 7-5 6-4. The victory was significant, as it earned Argentina its first tennis medal in the Olympics and helped the former World No.3 regain confidence after a grueling tournament.
Despite rain delays, del Potro’s focus and composure were evident. His powerful groundstrokes and ability to handle the big points were crucial in overcoming the 24-time Grand Slam champion. Djokovic had lost to Andy Murray in the semifinals before landing a spot in the Bronze Medal match with del Potro.
4. Rio Olympics 2016 First Round vs Novak Djokovic
In one of the most shocking upsets in Olympic tennis history, del Potro defeated World No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the first round of the 2016 Rio Olympics. The 2009 US Open Champion, ranked outside the top 100 due to injuries, played inspired tennis to win 7-6(4), 7-6(2).
Del Potro’s forehand was nearly unplayable, and his mental toughness in two tie-breaks sealed the win. The victory was even more dramatic given the Argentine earlier mishap, getting stuck in an elevator hours before the match. This triumph set the tone for a remarkable Olympic run, where del Potro eventually won the Silver Medal. The Argentine lost to Andy Murray in the Gold Medal match.
3. Shanghai Masters 2013 Semifinal vs Rafael Nadal
In the semifinals of the 2013 Shanghai Masters, del Potro once again outplayed Rafael Nadal, this time in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4. The Argentine aggressive and accurate baseline game overwhelmed Nadal, who struggled to find his rhythm against the Argentinian’s heavy shots.
Del Potro dictated the match with his forehand, converting crucial break points and saving several against Nadal’s counterattacks. This victory marked the 36-year-old fourth win against Nadal and his first since their epic battles in 2009. It also avenged his loss against the Spaniard in the Indian Wells final earlier that year.
2. US Open 2009 Final vs Roger Federer
The 2009 US Open final was a historic moment for del Potro. Facing Roger Federer, who had won the previous five US Open titles, the Argentine was the underdog. The match turned into a five-set classic, with del Potro rallying from a set down twice to claim a 3-6 7-6 4-6 7-6 6-2 victory.
The win marked del Potro’s first Grand Slam title, making him the first Argentinian man to win the US Open since Guillermo Vilas in 1977. It also ended Federer’s 40-match winning streak at Flushing Meadows. Before Djokovic in 2011, the former World No.3 remains the only player to defeat Nadal and Federer in the same Grand Slam event.
1. US Open 2009 Semifinal vs Rafael Nadal
In one of the most dominant performances of his career, Juan Martín del Potro dismantled World No. 3 Rafael Nadal in the semifinals of the 2009 US Open. Many expected Nadal to breeze past the young Argentinian, but del Potro shocked everyone with a stunning 6-2 6-2 6-2 victory.
The 36-year-old relentless forehand, impeccable serving, and fearless attitude left Nadal with no answers. This match showcased del Potro’s potential to challenge the sport’s elite and set up a final against five-time defending champion Roger Federer. The semifinal win remains one of the most one-sided victories over Nadal in a major tournament.
Main Photo Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports
