Former US Open champion Juan Martin del Potro, known for his fierce fighting spirit on the tennis court, has recently faced a difficult decision – he won’t be competing in this year’s US Open due to a knee injury. However, Del Potro remains hopeful about the future and continues to find inspiration and joy in life beyond tennis. In an exclusive interview, he opens up about his emotional decision, his newfound appreciation for quality of life, his connection with Argentine football legend Lionel Messi, his collaboration with Maestro Dobel tequila, and his thoughts on the next generation of tennis talent.
Facing Emotional Decisions:
Del Potro acknowledges the emotional difficulty of not being able to participate in the US Open, a tournament that holds immense significance for him. He had hoped to make a final appearance at this prestigious event in his career, but his persistent knee issues made it impossible. However, his fighting spirit remains undiminished, and he hasn’t given up on the dream of returning to the court for one last hurrah at the US Open. Del Potro expresses gratitude for the support of his team and doctors in considering this possibility, emphasizing the tournament’s profound importance in his heart and career.
Life Beyond Tennis:
Del Potro reflects on the transition from the rigorous life of a professional athlete to a more relaxed and pressure-free daily routine. He’s embracing this new phase of his life and is excited to explore what lies ahead. Spending time with his family in Argentina and enjoying life in Miami, where he now resides, has become a source of happiness and contentment. Del Potro remarks on the significance of having Lionel Messi in the same city, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen their connection.
Lionel Messi’s Impact:
The arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami has not only excited football fans but also created a sense of unity among Argentinians living in Miami. Del Potro expresses his desire to spend time with Messi in the future, understanding that Messi is adjusting to a new club, teammates, and life in a different city. He appreciates seeing Messi happy and free from the immense pressure he endured during his quest to win the World Cup.
Miami’s Weather and Enjoyment:
Del Potro light-heartedly remarks on the challenging weather conditions in Miami during July and August, advising Messi to use sunscreen liberally. Despite the heat and humidity, Messi appears to be enjoying his time in Miami.
Collaboration with Maestro Dobel:
Del Potro takes pride in his collaboration with Maestro Dobel, the first-ever tequila sponsor of the US Open. He considers it an honor to work with a brand that shares his passion for excellence. Del Potro believes that celebrating victories with Maestro Dobel tequila adds a special touch to the festivities, acknowledging the importance of marking successes.
Tequila Tastes:
Del Potro reveals his preferred way to enjoy tequila, which he learned from his Mexican friends. He enjoys it simply with a couple of ice cubes in the glass, savoring the strong flavors. His affinity for tequila has grown over time, and he appreciates its distinct taste.
Reflecting on Tennis Rivalries:
Del Potro reflects on his tennis journey, including his memorable battles with Novak Djokovic and other tennis greats like Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer. He expresses pride in being part of an era of tennis that featured such iconic rivalries. Del Potro credits these players not only for their on-court achievements but also for setting positive examples as sportsmen and individuals.
Carlos Alcaraz’s Potential:
Del Potro praises the emerging talent in tennis, particularly the young Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz. He believes that Alcaraz has the potential to become one of the sport’s future stars. Del Potro admires Alcaraz’s powerful forehand and charismatic presence on the court. He also mentions Jannik Sinner as another young player with the potential to make a significant impact in the years to come.
Conclusion:
Juan Martin del Potro’s journey in tennis has been marked by resilience, determination, and a relentless fighting spirit. While his career has faced challenges, he remains hopeful about the possibility of returning to the US Open one day. Beyond tennis, Del Potro is finding joy in everyday life, cherishing time with his family, and celebrating successes with Maestro Dobel tequila. His admiration for fellow athletes like Lionel Messi and emerging tennis stars like Carlos Alcaraz reflects his deep love for sports and his desire to see the sporting world continue to thrive.
