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Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he thought about ending his career because of debilitating back issues during the 2025 tennis year.

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

Now ranked 36th in the world after a limited schedule since his early exit in New York this past summer, Tsitsipas indicated continuous medical care is finally showing positive results.

"My greatest anticipation is to observe how my training holds up under actual training with regard to my back," commented Tsitsipas.

"My primary worry was whether I was able to finish a match," the athlete continued, noting the injury plagued him "over the last six to eight months."

"I would wonder, 'Can I compete in another match pain-free?'"

"It was genuinely scary following the loss in Flushing Meadows [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I could not to move for 48 hours. That's when you begin to question your career's future."

He also reported satisfaction regarding his current recovery plan after finishing an extended period of pre-season training completely pain-free.

His next appearance with the Greek team in the United Cup, drawn against Team Japan led by Osaka and the Great Britain squad captained by Raducanu. The tournament takes place in Perth and Sydney from 2 to 11 January, the week preceding the season's first major.

"My main goal next season is to stop worrying over completing bouts," he stated.

"It provides fantastic feedback to know you had an off-season without pain – I hope it continues. I aim to perform during the upcoming season and for the team championship.

"I have done the work. The most important thing is total belief that I can return to my previous level. I will attempt everything to make it happen."