Injuries are the biggest foe and woe of any athlete. Jack Draper is no exception, having had to retire from the US Open a few weeks ago. His official statement read, “It is very difficult for me to accept as I was building some incredible momentum this year and playing some great stuff.” And now, it seems another ATP star and former Wimbledon semifinalist has taken a similar route to wind up this calendar year. For former top 10 star and Polish player Hubert Hurkacz, the decision did not come easy.
Hurkacz took to his Instagram on September 26 and shared a note. “I would like to thank you very much for all the messages, support and kind words I receive from you. This is extremely important to me and gives me a lot of energy. 💪”, he began. Sharing the big decision on his remaining journey this season, he added, “I know that in order to return to tournaments and compete at the highest level, I need to be prepared 110%. That is why the best decision is to start in the next season – fully ready to fight. 🎾”
For the uninitiated, Hubert Hurkacz went through arthroscopic right knee surgery back in June. He even withdrew from the second-round match in the Libéma Open due to a back injury at that time. Since then, he hasn’t competed in an ATP tournament.
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Explaining why he went for the knee surgery, Hurkacz previously revealed, “I’ve been dealing with knee issues, such as pain, fluid build-up, and other problems that made it hard to train and compete. After exploring different options, we decided that having an arthroscopy this past Monday was the best solution.”
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While the Pole has opted to stay off the court until early next year, avid fans are rallying behind him. Heartwarming messages have flooded his comments section in the last few hours as Hurkacz continues his recovery journey.
Fans wish Hubert Hurkacz a speedy recovery
One hardcore fan of Hurkacz wrote, “Come on !! Hubi !!! Let’s go do the next season with everything 💪💪💪 you will be back again !!! 🔝 🔥🔥🔥” while another person echoed this sentiment saying, “Always behind you and the team, Hubi 💚 No matter how long it takes, I’ll be here waiting and cheering for you. Take your time, focus on yourself, and come back when you’re ready – I believe in you. 🎾✨”
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Even Hubert Hurkacz made sure to remain positive during his recovery phase. In his post, he mentioned that “I feel good, everything is going as it should and looks really positive. Every day I work with my Team in the gym, on the court and with physiotherapist.” The 28-year-old has a 15-11 singles record this season. Last year, he achieved his career-best ranking of No.6. However, he has now come down to the 69th spot.
One supporter prayed for his quick recovery while writing, “Take care of yourself and come back stronger, Hubi! ❤️🔥” Another fan justified his decision of taking a long break to ensure proper fitness. After all, health comes first. “Hubi, you made the right choice✨
Next season will be amazing for you. Our hearts are with you. We’re grateful that you’re focusing on your treatment🙏🌹”
For the uninitiated, this is not the first time Hurkacz has been battling injury woes. Exactly a year ago, he had to withdraw from the 2024 Paris Olympics. He had sustained a torn meniscus during Wimbledon, due to which he had to go through arthroscopic surgery. This year, it is the same right knee for which he needed arthroscopic surgery to remove an overgrown synovial membrane.
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On missing out the chance to play for his nation, he had confessed, “It was a very, very difficult decision because I dreamed of representing Poland at the Games and being able to win a medal for the team, but unfortunately my health won’t allow me to do so this year,” as reported by Eurosport in July 2024. Lastly, one fan hoped for his timely recovery and a huge comeback to the top 10 list. “We will wait for you in the top ten station… get well soon 👏”
Hopefully, Hubert Hurkacz will get well soon before the first Grand Slam of 2026, the Australian Open. Do you think he will be able to make it happen? Let us know in the comments below.