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The tennis professional disclosed he pondered quitting the sport due to severe spinal pain throughout the season.

At 27 years old, the player once ranked as high as third globally, finished as runner-up against Novak Djokovic at both the 2021 French Open and the 2023 Australian Open.

Now ranked 36th in the world following minimal competition post a early exit in New York in August, Tsitsipas indicated continuous medical care has begun yielding positive results.

"My greatest anticipation lies in seeing how my training responds during regular practice with regard to my injury," commented Tsitsipas.

"The biggest fear centered on if I could complete an encounter," the athlete continued, explaining the pain had troubled him "for the past six to eight months."

"I would wonder, 'Can I compete in another match without discomfort?'"

"I became truly frightened after the defeat at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I was unable to walk for 48 hours. That's when you begin to question the path ahead."

Tsitsipas further mentioned satisfaction regarding his current recovery plan following the completion of five weeks of pre-season training completely pain-free.

His next appearance for Greece at the team event, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the Great Britain squad led by Emma Raducanu. The competition will be held across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, the week preceding the Australian Open.

"My main goal for 2026 is to stop worrying about finishing matches," he expressed.

"It provides fantastic feedback realizing you completed a pre-season in good health – I wish for it to last. I want to deliver in 2026 and at the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The crucial element is total belief in my ability to get back to my previous level. I will try all means to make it happen."