Juan Martin del Potro Injury: Updates on Tennis Star's Wrist and Return

Juan Martin del Potro missed most of last season due to a wrist injury. The 26-year-old was poised to make his return at the Australian Open, but lingering problems with his left wrist have forced him out of the tournament. He has undergone surgery on the injury, and will begin rehab soon.  

Continue for updates.

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Del Potro to Begin Rehab Soon

Wednesday, Jan. 21

ESPN.com reported that del Potro would begin rehab in two weeks. 

On Tuesday, Jon Wertheim reported del Potro underwent surgery on his wrist:

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Del Potro Will Miss Australian Open

Saturday, Jan. 17

According to Courtney Nguyen of Sports Illustrated, del Potro announced his decision after a practice session in Australia:

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I didn't feel prepared for playing in this big event. My first Grand Slam after one year, five-set matches, is very tough. It could be dangerous for my wrist and also for my [body]. I think it was a tough decision, but could be a smart decision if I want to stay healthy and play for the whole year.

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The good news, based on del Potro's comments, is it doesn't sound like anything serious. He's just taking extra time to make sure that the wrist is able to stay strong over the course of a long season, instead of trying to win one tournament and risk further damage. 

Del Potro was scheduled to face Jerzy Janowicz in the first round, but the vacated spot will now go to Hiroki Moriya. 

Given his age, Del Potro should have some good tennis ahead of him. Wrist problems have taken his career off track, as he underwent surgery on the right side in 2010, months after winning the 2009 U.S. Open by defeating Roger Federer. 

It can't be understated how careful Del Potro needs to be this time around, especially considering all the problems he's had with his wrists. Withdrawing from one of the year's biggest events isn't easy, but it may be the smart move.