Marin Cilic says motivation is ‘strong as ever’ after second knee surgery

Ten years ago, Marin Cilic stormed to the US Open title in one of the most surprising Grand Slam triumphs of the Open Era, beating fellow surprise finalist Kei Nishikori in New York City. Two more Grand Slam finals, and a career-high ranking of No. 3, followed.

Now, at age 35, and with two knee surgeries in the rearview mirror in the last 12 months, the Croatian says his motivation is “as strong as ever” to get back to his best.

Cilic confirmed a second surgery on his right knee in a social media post this week, having first underwent an operation for the same injury early last year.

“The last few months have been spent trying to find solutions to treat difficulties I have with my knee,” Cilic wrote on Instagram on Friday. “I made the decision to undergo another knee surgery, after careful consideration and lots of helpful advice from expert doctors.

“This felt like the best option to move forward to reach full recovery.”

Cilic has only played six ATP main-draw matches in the last two seasons. In 2023, the Croatian played in just two tournaments, and this year, was 0-4 before going on hiatus. In the first of those matches, against German Jan-Lennard Struff in Hong Kong in the season’s opening week, he had nine match points before losing 3-6, 7-6(4), 7-6(7).

But none of that adversity has seemed to dampen Cilic’s spirits, and his belief that he can still play on the biggest stages.

“My desire to play again at the highest level hasn't faded, on the contrary, it is as strong as ever, and I am hopeful that this additional surgery will help me get closer to being back on court,” Cilic said.

“This journey the last 15 months has been challenging, but I am motivated to get back and thankful to you all for your support throughout.”