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Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he pondered quitting the sport due to debilitating back issues during the 2025 tennis year.

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

Currently placed 36th in the world after a limited schedule post a second-round departure in New York in August, Tsitsipas indicated that ongoing treatment has begun yielding positive results.

"I'm most excited is to observe how my body holds up under actual training with regard to my injury," commented Tsitsipas.

"My primary worry centered on if I could complete an encounter," he added, explaining the pain had troubled him "over the last six to eight months."

"I would wonder, 'Am I able to play in another match without discomfort?'"

"It was genuinely scary following the loss at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I was unable to move for 48 hours. That's when you begin to question your career's future."

Tsitsipas further mentioned satisfaction regarding the present treatment regimen following the completion of five weeks of pre-season training without any pain.

His next appearance with the Greek team in the United Cup, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the Great Britain squad led by Emma Raducanu. The tournament takes place across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, just before the Australian Open.

"My main goal for 2026 is to not have concerns about finishing matches," he expressed.

"It is incredibly encouraging to know you had a pre-season without pain – I hope it continues. I aim to perform during the upcoming season and for the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The most important thing is total belief in my ability to get back to my previous level. I will attempt everything to make it happen."