Martín Landaluce: The Rising Star of Spanish Men’s Tennis
Martín Landaluce, a 19-year-old tennis player from Madrid, has become a beacon of hope for Spanish men’s tennis on the ATP circuit. With his impressive results, he has earned a spot in his first Grand Slam tournament in Melbourne. Before his debut, he shared his thoughts on his journey so far.
A Birthday to Remember
Landaluce celebrated his birthday in a unique way – by playing a qualifying match at the Australian Open. He reflected on the experience, saying it was a first for him to win a match on his birthday. His family was in the stands, singing “Happy Birthday” along with the crowd, creating an exciting atmosphere.
Adapting to the Australian Sun
Landaluce has been wearing sunglasses during his matches in Australia, a departure from his usual style. He explained that his blue eyes are sensitive to the intense sun, and the glasses have been a lifesaver. He hopes to continue wearing them throughout the tournament to maintain his performance.
A Long Preseason Pays Off
Landaluce’s extensive preseason training, which included time in Dubai and Jeddah, has contributed to his good form. He believes that adapting to the hot conditions in Melbourne was crucial, and his early arrival in the city helped him prepare well.
Proof of His Level
Landaluce’s loss to Brazilian Joao Fonseca in the quarterfinals of the Lyon challenger in October was a turning point. Fonseca went on to win the U20 Masters, demonstrating the high level of competition. Landaluce acknowledged that he has the level to compete with the best and is encouraged by Fonseca’s success.
Reaching the Top 100
Landaluce doesn’t focus on specific rankings but instead prioritizes enjoying his time on the court and performing well. He is confident that if he continues to do so, he will eventually break into the top 100.
A Decision to Turn Pro
After winning the US Junior Open three years ago, Landaluce had the opportunity to study and compete at an American university. However, he chose to pursue a professional tennis career while continuing his studies. He is happy with his decision, which allows him to balance his passion for tennis with his education.
Staying Grounded
Landaluce tries to limit his social media use, keeping his accounts on his computer rather than his mobile phone. This helps him stay disconnected and focused on his game. He also looks up to Carlos Alcaraz, who he describes as a natural and down-to-earth person.
A Lesson from Rafael Nadal
At 14, Landaluce had the chance to train with Rafael Nadal, an experience that taught him the importance of mentality in tennis. He learned that every ball is an opportunity to give his best, a lesson that has stayed with him throughout his career.
