VIDEO: Del Potro hitting backhands following surgery

Juan Martin del Potro has returned to the practice court and resumed hitting backhands following wrist surgery in March, the former U.S. Open champion reported on social media.

"I have great news to share," the Argentine wrote in a statement on Facebook. "Four months after the surgery I hit my first few backhands and my doctor Richard Berger was there."

Del Potro, who has not played singles since retiring in his opening match at Dubai in February, has not set a date for his return, saying only, "I’m looking forward to playing pain-free again as soon as possible. Thanks for your support."

The former world No. 4 underwent left wrist surgery to repair damaged ligaments in the joint, following a similar injury in his right wrist that also required surgery in 2010.