Cilic pays a heartfelt tribute to Del Potro: "I'm very happy that you were able to have the send-off you deserve".

On December 1, Juan Martin Del Potro said goodbye to tennis.

The Argentine, officially retired from the courts in 2022, played an exhibition match against Novak Djokovic in Buenos Aires.

He won the match before the crowd paid tribute to him one last time.

On social networks, Marin Cilic also wrote to his former rival on the ATP circuit (Del Potro won 11 of their 13 meetings).

"Dear Juan Martin, there have been so many goodbyes this year, and at a time when they have all left us with a bitter taste, they are also a celebration of what you have all achieved.

I'm very happy that you were able to have the farewell you deserve, at home, alongside Novak, who showed all his elegance by taking part in this moment with you," began the Croatian.

"He is a testament to the admiration and respect you have had from your peers and all the fans around the world.

Bravo for everything you've done. You've been able to make your dreams come true, and you've inspired so many people in your career.

While we wonder what else you might have achieved if luck and, above all, health had been a little kinder to you, the legacy you leave behind you certainly belongs in the category of the greatest.

I wish you all the best for whatever comes your way; you richly deserve it," he concluded.