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Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he pondered quitting the sport because of severe back issues during the season.

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

Now ranked as the world's 36th best player following minimal competition post a early exit at the US Open this past summer, Tsitsipas indicated that ongoing treatment is finally showing positive results.

"I'm most excited lies in seeing how my training holds up under actual training with regard to my injury," commented Tsitsipas.

"My primary worry centered on if I was able to finish a match," he added, noting the injury plagued him "for the past six to eight months."

"I would wonder, 'Am I able to play another contest pain-free?'"

"It was genuinely scary after the defeat at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I was unable to move for 48 hours. That is the moment begin to question the path ahead."

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

His next appearance for Greece at the team event, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the British team captained by Raducanu. The tournament will be held across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, just before the Australian Open.

"The greatest victory for 2026 is to not have concerns over completing bouts," he stated.

"It provides fantastic feedback to know you completed a pre-season in good health – I wish for it to last. I aim to perform during the upcoming season and for the United Cup.

"The effort is invested. The crucial element is complete faith that I can return to my previous level. I will attempt everything to achieve that."