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Stefanos Tsitsipas has revealed he pondered quitting the sport because of debilitating back issues throughout the season.

The 27-year-old, who has reached a career-high ranking of world number three, was a finalist to 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 since his second-round departure at the US Open in August, he stated continuous medical care is finally showing encouraging progress.

"I'm most excited lies in seeing how my body responds during regular practice with regard to my back," commented Tsitsipas.

"The biggest fear centered on if I could complete a match," the athlete continued, noting the injury had troubled him "over the last six to eight months."

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

"I became truly frightened following the loss at the US Open [to Germany's Daniel Altmaier]. I could not to walk for two days. That's when you start reconsidering the path ahead."

He also reported being content with the present treatment regimen after finishing an extended period of off-season preparation completely pain-free.

His next appearance with the Greek team at the team event, where they face Naomi Osaka's Japan and the Great Britain squad captained by Raducanu. The tournament will be held across Australian cities from 2 to 11 January, just before the Australian Open.

"The greatest victory next season would be to not have concerns about finishing matches," he expressed.

"It is incredibly encouraging realizing you had a pre-season in good health – I hope it continues. I want to deliver during the upcoming season and for the United Cup.

"I have done the work. The crucial element is total belief that I can return to my previous level. I will try all means to make it happen."