At 36 years old, Juan Martín Del Potro officially celebrated his farewell to tennis in an emotional exhibition match alongside Novak Djokovic. The event, which brought together approximately 15,000 people at the Parque Roca Stadium in Buenos Aires, marked the end of an unforgettable career for the "Tower of Tandil."

A Career Full of Achievements

With a 6-4, 7-5 victory, Del Potro, a winner of 22 ATP titles, celebrated with his fans, receiving a final ovation on an emotional Sunday. Among his greatest achievements are his 2009 US Open title, two Olympic medals (bronze in London 2012 and silver in Rio 2016), and his role as the flagbearer in Argentina's only Davis Cup victory in 2016.

After undergoing multiple surgeries on his knees, particularly the left one, "Delpo" played his last official match on February 5, 2022, in Buenos Aires. He reached a career-high ranking of World No. 3 on August 13, 2018. On this occasion, he symbolically closed his career by hanging his iconic headband on the net at Parque Roca.

Djokovic's Words

"We are saying goodbye to a great professional, but an even better person. An exceptional rival who transcended the courts and generated love among all his opponents," said Novak Djokovic, visibly emotional.

"Tonight is a sad one for the world of tennis, but I feel happy because we are here to celebrate Juan Martín's career. Thank you, Argentina, for this wonderful reception," the Serbian added after the match.

Later, a video was shown on the stadium's screens with messages from sports icons such as Roger Federer, Emanuel Ginóbili, Martín Palermo, Lionel Scaloni, Carlos Alcaraz, Gaël Monfils, and Rafael Nadal.

'Delpo': "I Promise I'm Leaving Happy"

During his speech, Del Potro expressed special gratitude to Djokovic. "In March, in the United States, I asked him if there was any chance he could come to Argentina during a very challenging year for him, with the Olympics as a big goal and a packed schedule. He immediately said yes because he wanted to return to Argentina after 11 years to be here with me and the Argentine people. He has all the titles in the sport, but with gestures like these, he shows he has the hardest trophy to earn: the love of the people," he said with tears in his eyes.

"From the bottom of my heart, I thank everyone who came and supported me throughout my career. The love from the people has filled my soul all these years," he added.

Finally, Del Potro addressed his family and team: "I want to thank everyone who stood by me in this last challenge, as well as the athletes and colleagues who sent their messages on this special day. Lastly, a special mention to my family and those close to me who have been with me since I was a kid. I promise you all, I am ending my career, and I’m leaving happy."