The Tower of Tandil — a devastating champion whose career was cruelly cut short by a wrist injury.
Juan Martín del Potro was born on 23 September 1988 in Tandil, Argentina. He turned professional in 2003 and announced himself with his 2009 US Open title — defeating both Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the same Slam, the only man ever to do so at the US Open in the Open Era. Standing 6'6", he was known for his huge forehand and powerful all-court game. His career was repeatedly disrupted by wrist surgeries — four on his left wrist alone. He also won an Olympic bronze in 2012 and Olympic silver in 2016. Del Potro retired in 2022 due to a knee injury sustained from a fall.
US Open 2009
He is the only man in Open Era history to beat both Federer and Nadal in the same Grand Slam, doing so at the 2009 US Open.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- US Open 2009
- Olympic Bronze 2012
- Olympic Silver 2016