Cilic Reflects on Knee Injury: "Meeting That Surgeon Was a True Blessing"
After his knee injury in 2023, Marin Čilić continues his climb back up the rankings. Currently ranked 109th in the ATP rankings, the Croat opened up about his current ambitions in an interview with *Tennis World Italia*:
"You simply have to accept that you're no longer in the top 100 or top 50, and therefore you can't choose just any tournament. It's time to keep your head down, work hard, and return to the Challengers. I'm really satisfied with my ranking and the direction I'm heading. Let's see what the year has in store for me."
The 2014 US Open champion also discussed the difficulties he faced following his meniscus injury. He mentioned Dr. Brian Cole, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine expert from the University of Chicago, who played a crucial role in his recovery:
"I did my research. I read hundreds of studies on knee surgery, recovery, methods, what to do, what not to do, and how to train.
He explained very clearly what his approach would be, which turned out to be a true blessing. The persistent knee issues were due to cartilage in the same area, likely from overuse over the years.
The second surgery was truly the best choice, the best decision I’ve made in recent years regarding my knee."
