Former Uruguay striker Diego Forlan falls short in his tennis doubles debut

Former Uruguay striker Diego Forlan, aged 45, faced a disappointing debut in tennis doubles alongside Argentina's Federico Cori, as they suffered a defeat on the court.

Under significant pressure, the pair struggled to perform, accumulating only 27 points during the 47-minute match, ultimately losing 6-1, 6-2 to Bolivia's Boris Arias and Federico Zeballos at the Uruguay Open on Wednesday.

This outcome sharply contrasted with the enthusiastic cheers from the packed audience at the Carrasco Lawn Tennis Centre, who had hoped to witness the same brilliance that Forlan once displayed in football.

"I had a great time. I was aware that the likelihood of facing a challenging match was quite high. I felt content. It is certainly not easy. I participated in exhibitions in 2017 and 2018, but I lacked the experience I have now," Forlan remarked positively during a press conference.

Forlan enjoyed a distinguished football career with Uruguay, netting 36 goals in 112 appearances, including a remarkable journey to the semi-finals of the 2010 World Cup.

The former player for Atletico Madrid, Villarreal, Inter Milan, and Manchester United, with whom he secured a Premier League title, has shifted his focus to tennis since retiring in 2018.

He has taken part in over three +40 tournaments in Montevideo and has also made a mark in the MT1000 in Lima as part of the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour. However, his transition from football star to tennis beginner will necessitate additional practice sessions.

The Challenger Tour event will continue in Montevideo from November 11th to November 17th.

SportsLigue