Tennis Star Reilly Opelka Makes Emotional Return to ATP Circuit After Near-Two-Year Absence Due to Injuries
Returning to the competition is always a reason for joy and the return of Reilly Opelka has been met with a smile of a giant. The 2’11 meter American has returned to the ATP circuit after almost two years away from the tracks due to long-term hip and wrist injuries.
This week, Opelka has rediscovered his best version in Newport after harvesting two important victories in his return. The first of them was in his debut against Constant Lestienne and today before Adrian Mannarino, the reigning champion of the American tournament, he won 4-6, 6-3 and 4-6, thus making it to the quarter-finals.
Opelka’s return to the tracks marks a significant milestone for the tennis player who has been absent from the circuit for 23 months. In August 2022, he was forced to withdraw from the circuit after being crowned champion in Dallas and Houston, and was ranked 17th in the world.
"It felt like more than two years had passed. It was nice to find my level again," Opelka said in an interview. "It was nice to be back. It felt like more than two years had passed. So yeah, it’s been nice to find my level again. I’m still learning how to get around and trying to figure it all out. But yes, it’s great to be back."
Opelka’s return to the circuit has seen him back in good shape, with the American saying, "Luckily, I feel like I’m picking up where I left off in DC." He also expressed his gratitude, saying, "From where I was a couple of months ago to where I am now, this is a big step for me. I wasn’t sure if I would play this year or not. But right now I feel really good about my body, knock on wood. It seems to change every week, but it’s definitely going in the right direction."
Opelka’s impressive return to the circuit has seen him serving cannon shots, winning 89% of his first serves and 16 direct aces against Lestienne in his debut match. He improved his statistics in his second match against Mannarino, hitting 19 aces in his second match of the season.
With his return, Opelka is back serving as a formidable force on the ATP circuit, and fans are excited to see him back in action.