Cilic’s emotional note to Del Potro: ‘Your legacy is secure’

Marin Cilic sent his heartfelt regards to former rival Juan Martin del Potro on social media Wednesday.

The former No. 3 in the PIF ATP Rankings officially bid farewell to the sport last weekend during an exhibition match at Parque Roca in Buenos Aires, where he faced 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic. He also played his final ATP Tour match in the Argentine capital at the 2022 IEB+ Argentina Open.

“So many farewells this year, and while they are bittersweet for us tennis enthusiasts, they are also a celebration of all that you guys have achieved,” Cilic shared on X.

“Congratulations on all your incredible accomplishments, for realizing your dreams, and for inspiring so many with your journey.”

Dear Juan Martin,
So many farewells this year, and while they are bittersweet for us tennis enthusiasts, they are also a celebration of all that you guys have achieved.
I’m truly happy that you had the farewell you deserve, at home, alongside @DjokerNole, who showed...
1/3

— Marin Cilic (@cilic_marin) December 4, 2024

The two players achieved their career milestones at the US Open, with Del Potro emerging victorious in 2009 and Cilic claiming the trophy in 2014. They played 13 times in their Lexus ATP Head2Head series, with the Argentine winning 11 of those matches. The pair's last meeting came at Roland Garros in 2018, which Del Potro won in four sets.

With that in mind, their mutual respect extends far beyond the court.

Del Potro, a 22-time tour-level titlist, sealed his career with a 439-174 record, according to the Infosys ATP Win/Loss Index.

“While we can’t help but wonder what could have been if luck (and health) had been kinder to you, your legacy is secure as one of the greats,” Cilic said. “Wishing you all the best in everything that follows—you truly deserve it.”