Diego Forlán, a recognized former footballer who has played for clubs such as Independiente, Manchester United, and Atlético de Madrid, among others, is preparing to debut in professional tennis. Although he acknowledges that he is not at the level of professional players, Forlán is excited to participate in the Montevideo Challenger in the doubles category.
In a recent statement, Forlán said: "I am preparing in the best way possible, but I am clear that I am not at the level of professional players." He hopes to have the support of his doubles partner to fully enjoy the experience, despite the demands of the tennis level in the +45 category, where players with experience on the ATP circuit compete.
The former Uruguayan footballer will team up with Argentine Federico Coria in the Montevideo Challenger. Their first match will be against Bolivians Boris Arias and Federico Zeballos, who are ranked 110th in the ATP doubles ranking. Both opponents have extensive experience in this type of competition and have excelled in previous tournaments.
Forlán explains that although he feels physically well, he acknowledges that tennis is a completely different sport from football, which motivates him to participate in the doubles format. Although travel and family may make it difficult for him to participate in future tournaments, his intention is to continue playing in this category and enjoy the competition alongside his partner Coria.
Boris Arias and Federico Zeballos, the Bolivian tennis duo that will face Forlán and Coria, have consolidated their partnership in 2022, reaching finals in Challenger tournaments and advancing to the semifinals at the ATP 250 in Córdoba this year. With a considerable age difference from Forlán, both players present a challenge for the former footballer's debut in professional tennis.
