Challenger
Unveiling Hurkacz’s Relentless Comeback Journey After His Struggles
The 29-year-old athlete is currently competing at the Cap Cana Challenger.
March 12, 2026
MercaFilms
Hubert Hurkacz greets fans at this week’s Cap Cana Challenger in the Dominican Republic.
By Grant Thompson
The unseen grind that unfolds away from the limelight plays a critical role in an athlete’s recovery from injury.
For Hubert Hurkacz, bouncing back after knee surgery required an unwavering commitment, featuring over a month of rigorous 10-to-12-hour daily schedules dedicated to rehabilitation, fitness, and recovery.
After undergoing arthroscopic right knee surgery in July, Hurkacz took to the Tour at the beginning of this year, eager to reclaim his peak performance. Given the dedication he displayed during his rehabilitation, it’s evident that his return to top form is more a question of “when” than “if.”
“The past few months were incredibly intense,” Hurkacz shared with ATPTour.com during the ATP Challenger 175 in Cap Cana, Dominican Republic. “Our sessions began around 8:30 or 9 with fitness, followed by some tennis. We only practiced tennis for about one-and-a-half to two hours, then proceeded to ice baths and stretching until around 1.
“After that, we spent about five hours on average in physical therapy, along with yoga, stretching, meals, and mental exercises. That was my weekly routine from Monday until Saturday.”
This week at the Republica Dominicana Open – Copa Cap Cana, marking his first ATP Challenger participation since 2019, the physical aspect was just one part of the equation. The mental fortitude was equally demanding, as Hurkacz had to stay patient while awaiting visible results.
“For several months, progress seemed elusive despite the hard work,” Hurkacz explained. “Doubts sometimes crept in, leaving me questioning whether I’d ever compete at my previous level again.
“It was tough, but my mindset plays a key role. I can push myself tirelessly without needing much rest. There are days I wake up feeling positive and excited, only to struggle on the court, experiencing pain and limited movement. Each subsequent day brings similar challenges, urging me to reassess whether I’m on the right path or if I just need to exercise more patience.”
Hurkacz characterized his recovery period as “quite hectic,” even managing to steal away for a vacation in Croatia. In the early phases, his regimen included water-based exercises.
“Playing tennis was out of the question; I could barely move,” Hurkacz recounted. “Depending on my condition, we adapted our activities accordingly.”
His comeback at the United Cup was nothing short of spectacular, as he led Poland to a triumphant title, winning four out of five singles matches, including two significant Top 10 victories against Alexander Zverev and Taylor Fritz.
Before becoming a well-known name in professional tennis, Hurkacz established his groundwork in the ATP Challenger circuit, seizing milestones that would facilitate his ascent. He celebrated three ATP Challenger titles between 2018 and 2019.
“Winning my first Challenger title in Poznan, Poland, remains a cherished memory,” Hurkacz shared. “That victory was pivotal in propelling me toward the Top 100 in the rankings—it helped make that goal feel achievable.”
“Winning in Brest, France, in 2018 was also crucial, as it allowed me to qualify for the Next Gen Finals. That was a remarkable moment, especially since I needed a solid performance to have any chance of making the cut.”
As he competes in his first Challenger event in nearly seven years, Hurkacz is on a new quest for success.
“The top priority is staying healthy, which has been achieved,” Hurkacz noted. “I feel the need for more matches, and especially wins. While playing matches is beneficial, victories provide the greatest confidence boost.
“My level isn’t completely consistent yet, but I don’t feel far off. We’re putting in the hard work daily and savoring the competitive spirit.”
