Golden Ball Winner Diego Forlan is all set to make his professional Tennis debut

Diego Forlán, a celebrated figure in Uruguayan football, is poised to transition into a new phase of his athletic journey by making his professional tennis debut at the Uruguay Open. Forlan is widely regarded as one of the strikers of his generation, enjoying a highly successful career filled with numerous accolades including Golden Ball. 

Before retiring in 2019, Forlán had an impressive tenure with top clubs such as Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan. He was the best player of the 2010 World Cup, where he also shared the honour of being the tournament’s joint-highest scorer. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in Uruguay’s triumph in the 2011 Copa America final, scoring twice and helping the team secure its first continental title in 16 years.

Forlan debuts in ATP circuit in Men's doubles category 

Forlán has transitioned from the football field to the tennis court. He will make his debut in the tennis world at the Uruguay Open, a tournament within the ATP Challenger circuit. Since retiring from professional football, Forlán nurtured a strong passion for tennis, and now he is excited to embark on this new competitive journey. He will compete in the doubles category, teaming up with Argentine tennis player Fede Coria.

His debut at the Uruguay Open is made possible by a wild card, granting him the opportunity to compete in this prestigious tournament despite not being fully qualified. The Uruguayan '10' is set to take on some of the region's finest tennis players, showcasing his skills on the court.

Forlán's highly anticipated debut will take place this Wednesday night, where he and his doubles partner, Fede Coria, will face off against Bolivian players Boris Arias and Federico Zeballos in the tournament's round of 16.

"I enjoy it a lot; I love having the chance, like today, to come and play tennis at this beautiful club, where I grew up, and where I spent my childhood. It's truly a privilege. I am a former football player trying to play tennis," Forlan remarked.

“I want to have fun, come here, enter this court and see many people, friends, family, acquaintances. I will get in and enjoy myself.” he added.