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Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he pondered quitting the sport 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, was a finalist against Novak Djokovic at both the 2021 French Open and the 2023 Australian Open.

Currently placed as the world's 36th best player after a limited schedule post a early exit at the US Open this past summer, he stated that ongoing treatment is finally showing positive results.

"My greatest anticipation lies in seeing how my training responds during regular practice concerning my back," said Tsitsipas.

"The biggest fear centered on if I was able to finish a match," he added, explaining the pain plagued him "for the past half a year or more."

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

"I became truly frightened 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 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 Great Britain squad led by Emma Raducanu. The competition will be held in Perth and Sydney from 2 to 11 January, just before the Australian Open.

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

"It is incredibly encouraging realizing you completed a pre-season without pain – I wish for it to last. 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 achieve that."