'Scared' Stefanos Tsitsipas reveals moment he considered retirement: 'I could not walk for two days'

(Getty/Elsa)

Former world No. 3 and two-time Grand Slam finalist Stefanos Tsitsipas has admitted that he considered retirement last year.

It was a disastrous 2025 season for the Greek star, who fell as low as 36th in the rankings, failed to surpass the second round of a major, and controversially parted ways with ex-coach Goran Ivanišević after a short stint.

Injuries also played a factor in Tsitsipas' slump, as he retired during the first round of his Wimbledon opener, citing back pain, which carried over to the US Open.

HEAD has partnered with the Kooyong Classic for 2026. HEAD will be on-site with all their latest products, including the launch of the new Revolt Pro 5.0. Visit the HEAD tents at the Kooyong Classic from 13-15th January to do a fit test on the new Revolt Pros.

Currently in Perth for Greece's United Cup campaign, the 27-year-old discussed when hanging up the racquet crossed his mind.

"I'm most excited to see how my actual training responds with regard to my back," Tsitsipas said.

"My biggest concern was if I could finish a match. I would ask, 'Can I play another match without pain?'

"I got really scared after the US Open loss [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I could not walk for two days. That's when you reconsider the future of your career."

Tsitsipas has previously fallen short at the 2021 Roland-Garros final and the 2023 Australian Open decider.

The Kooyong Classic returns to the spiritual home of Australian tennis from January 13-15, 2026.

Each year, the Kooyong Classic features the world’s best players in their final preparation for the Australian Open. 

The 2026 event will feature Lorenzo Musetti, Alexander Bublik, Nick Kyrgios, Karen Khachanov, Flavio Cobolli, Frances Tiafoe, Learner Tien, Matteo Berrettini, Hubert Hurkacz, Marin Čilić and Zhang Zhizhen, alongside Donna Vekić and a special guest appearance Daniela Hantuchová. More to be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets on sale now through Ticketek/www.kooyongclassic.com.au

Hospitality packages can be viewed on the Kooyong Classic website and purchased by contacting info@kooyongclassic.com.au.