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The tennis professional disclosed he pondered quitting the sport because of debilitating back issues during the season.

The 27-year-old, who has reached a career-high ranking of world number three, finished as runner-up to Novak Djokovic in the finals of the 2021 French Open alongside the 2023 Australian Open.

Currently placed 36th in the world after a limited schedule post a early exit at the US Open this past summer, Tsitsipas indicated continuous medical care is finally showing encouraging progress.

"I'm most excited is to observe how my training holds up under actual training concerning my back," commented Tsitsipas.

"The biggest fear centered on if I was able to finish an encounter," he added, noting the injury had troubled him "for the past six to eight months."

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

"I became truly frightened after the defeat at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I was unable to walk for two days. That's when you begin to question the path ahead."

He also reported being content with the present treatment regimen after finishing an extended period of off-season preparation completely pain-free.

He is scheduled to compete with the Greek team at the team event, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the British team led by Emma Raducanu. The tournament will be held across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, the week preceding the season's first major.

"My main goal for 2026 would be to stop worrying about finishing matches," he stated.

"It is incredibly encouraging to know you completed an off-season in good health – I hope it continues. I aim to perform during the upcoming season and for the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The crucial element is total belief in my ability to get back to where I was. I will try all means to make it happen."