Stefanos Tsitsipas undergoes right elbow surgery and begins recovery process

After taking an opening group-stage loss at this year's Nitto ATP Finals, Stefanos Tsitsipas withdrew from the event due to a right elbow injury. The Greek player took to Instagram to give fans an update on his progress and it appears he's undergone elbow surgery and is beginning the recovery process already.

"Things often get tougher before they get easier but with each struggle we get an opportunity to create our own unique story," Tsitsipas wrote on Facebook.

Tsitsipas who often finds the deeper meaning in life and sites quotes from himself and noted philosophers, continued the post by saying some days are about chasing your dreams and hopes, while others are solely about putting one foot in front of the other. The world No. 4 sat in the hospital bed with a smile on his face and looks to be in high spirits.

The world No. 4 had a solid year. He claimed his first Masters 1000 event by easily moving past Andrey Rublev in Monte Carlo's final and he also gave Novak Djokovic a run for his money in the Roland Garros final—when he soared to a two sets to nothing lead. Although he struggled to tie wins together in the last quarter of the season and took a few hard-hitting losses, he's focused on what's ahead of him and will gear up for the 2022 season in Dubai.

"Focused on a healthier and happier future. Next stop, pre-season in Dubai two weeks from now and then looking forward to Australia," he wrote.