Despite all the setbacks, Cilic does not lose hope: "My desire to play again at the highest level has not faded."

What tenacity! Marin Cilic, seriously injured in the knee, has not won a match since January 2023. After undergoing an initial surgery in early 2023, the former world No. 3 had to go under the knife again. Following some interesting but losing matches at the beginning of the 2024 season (4 defeats), he finally realized that a second operation was necessary.

Operated on this Friday, a whole process of upgrading and rehabilitation now awaits the winner of the 2014 US Open. Despite serious physical problems, the 1.98m tall Croatian, known for his mutant serve and powerful forehand strikes, does not seem willing to give up. Thus, as he withdraws from the French Open, where he planned to use his protected ranking, he explained on social media: "I have made the decision to undergo another knee operation, after careful consideration and numerous helpful advice from expert doctors. It seemed to me the best option to move forward and achieve complete recovery. My desire to play again at the highest level has not faded, on the contrary, it is stronger than ever, and I hope that this additional operation will help me get closer to my return to the court."