Marin Cilic’s emotional observe to Juan Martin Del Potro: ‘Your legacy is safe’ | ATP Tour

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Cilic’s emotional observe to Del Potro: ‘Your legacy is safe’

Croat shares heartwarming farewell message on social media

December 05, 2024

Marin Cilic despatched his heartfelt regards to former rival Juan Martin del Potro on social media Wednesday.

The previous No. 3 within the PIF ATP Rankings formally bid farewell to the game final weekend throughout an exhibition match at Parque Roca in Buenos Aires, the place he confronted 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. He additionally performed his ultimate ATP Tour match within the Argentine capital on the 2022 IEB+ Argentina Open.

“So many farewells this yr, and whereas they’re bittersweet for us tennis lovers, they’re additionally a celebration of all that you just guys have achieved,” Cilic shared on X.

“Congratulations on all of your unbelievable accomplishments, for realizing your goals, and for uplifting so many together with your journey.”

Pricey Juan Martin,
So many farewells this yr, and whereas they’re bittersweet for us tennis lovers, they’re additionally a celebration of all that you just guys have achieved.
I’m really completely happy that you just had the farewell you deserve, at residence, alongside @DjokerNole, who confirmed…
1/3

— Marin Cilic (@cilic_marin) December 4, 2024

The 2 gamers achieved their profession milestones on the US Open, with Del Potro rising victorious in 2009 and Cilic claiming the trophy in 2014. They performed 13 instances of their Lexus ATP Head2Head collection, with the Argentine successful 11 of these matches. The pair’s final assembly got here at Roland Garros in 2018, which Del Potro gained in 4 units.

With that in thoughts, their mutual respect extends far past the courtroom.

Del Potro, a 22-time tour-level titlist, sealed his profession with a 439-174 report, in accordance with the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index.

“Whereas we are able to’t assist however marvel what may have been if luck (and well being) had been kinder to you, your legacy is safe as one of many greats,” Cilic stated. “Wishing you all one of the best in every little thing that follows—you really deserve it.”