Injury-plagued Del Potro set for latest comeback

Juan Martin Del Potro, the former world number four, is now ranked 366th as a result of his long injury layoff

Injury-plagued former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro will launch his latest comeback at Delray Beach in Florida from February 15, the towering Argentine announced Wednesday. Del Potro, 27, famously stunned Roger Federer to capture the US Open in 2009 on his way to number four in the world. But he has been dogged by wrist problems ever since, requiring three operations to repair the damage. "I wanted to share the moment and happiness that I feel knowing I will play on a tennis court once again after such a long time," Del Potro said in a three-minute video message posted on his Facebook page. Delo Potro played only three tournaments in 2014 and just two in 2015, the last of which was in Miami in March. His world ranking has slumped to 1,041 as a consequence and in his darkest moments, he admitted he even pondered quitting. "The uncertainties, all the bad moments I had to go through, the many mood swings and really difficult days that make you think about giving up," said the winner of 18 tour titles. "But I have good people who would not let me fall. They were there at the right moments, supporting and helping me. "They ruled out all thoughts of retirement; they always encouraged me."