This commentary reflects on the ongoing challenges and strategies in malaria elimination, built on insights from Greenwood's 2009 commentary, alongside more recent publications and developments up to 2024. Many of the challenges and strategies discussed by Greenwood remain relevant today. Furthermore, several of Greenwood's predictions have proven accurate 15 years on. Despite significant global progress, malaria elimination faces its toughest challenge, particularly in high-transmission areas. As we confront tougher challenges in malaria elimination, it becomes clear that we must go beyond mere reliance on any single solution.