Mark Philippoussis is making a surprise return to the ATP Tour at age 38.
Philippoussis has been handed a wildcard to the qualifying draw at next month’s Hall of Fame Tennis Championships in Newport — the scene of his last career title in 2006.
It will be his first tour appearance in nine years after his career was cut short by a knee injury.
Philippoussis, who lives with wife Silvana and one-year-old son Nicholas in San Diego, has played some senior events in recent years and took part in an exhibition match against Rafael Nadal in the lead-up to this year’s Australian Open.
He told the Herald Sun in January how the seniors tour had reinvigorated his love for the game.
“I”m really enjoying it,” Philippoussis said. “I’m really surprised how much. Just the pure pleasure of going out and playing, being a little bit more laid back, getting the crowd involved, it’s great.”
Philippoussis was a two-time Grand Slam finalist, losing to Pat Rafter at the 1998 US Open and Roger Federer at Wimbledon in 2003.
He seemed content with his career achievements when talking to Fairfax in December last year.
“If my guardian angel came to me and said let me make a deal with with you: ‘You’re going to be a pro tennis player, get to eight in the world, you’ll lose in the final of two grand slams and win two Davis Cups but you’ll get injured and your career would end sooner than you want, would you take that?’ I’m like absolutely yes. I’m on board,” Philippoussis said.
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