Can't Keep Him Down: Haas to attempt comeback after undergoing ninth surgery

Tommy Haas has successfully undergone foot surgery to repair a torn ligament.

According to the ATP’s website, this was the ninth surgery of Haas' career. Now 38 years old—he turned pro in 1996—the German wants to return to the tour.

Haas has been sidelined since experiencing discomfort in Shanghai and Vienna. He had just returned after missing time with a shoulder issue, and had been scheduled to return in Munich.

The former world No. 2 would like to return in about six months, but he admitted that he might not be able to play until next season. Having had so many injuries in his career, the two-time ATP Comeback Player of the Year has cited playing in front of his daughter, Valentina, as one of the reasons he wants to stay on tour.

But he added that this procedure was not done just to extend his playing career; it also allows him to move around comfortably and do simple everyday activities.

"I knew that, even if I wasn't playing professional tennis anymore, I would probably have to get [the surgery] done," he told the ATP’s website, adding that he is still aiming to return to the court. "I know it will be a very, very hard task, but there's no doubt in my mind [that] I'm certainly going to try.”