Former Manchester United star set to make professional tennis debut after surprise career switch: Reports
Former Manchester United star Diego Forlan is reportedly all set to make a switch to professional tennis. The legendary striker is expected to feature in the Uruguay Open, slated to be held next month in Montevideo, as per @centregoals on X. Forlan will team up with Federico Coria in the men's doubles category.
It is well known that Forlan was a promising tennis player in his teens before becoming a professional footballer. Having retired from the sport in 2019, Forlan has now decided to take the plunge into professional tennis and test the waters. He is known for his left-handed forehand.
Forlan has been participating in ITF Masters events lately, but the Uruguay Open is recognized by the ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals). Since it sits in the second-tier Challenger Tour, Forlan needed a wildcard to make his entry. His Argentine partner Coria is the world number 101 in singles.
The 45-year-old will hope that his debut in professional tennis goes well, although he has been playing in the 45-and-over categories already. This means that his fitness, despite having retired, is still top-notch.
Diego Forlan is much loved at Manchester United
Forlan arrived at Manchester United from Argentine club Independiente in 2002 and spent two seasons there. Former United boss Sir Alex Ferguson always spoke kindly about Forlan. He also appreciated his poacher's instincts near goal as well as exquisite passing and shooting skills in the final third.
United's supporters continued to sing his name for years after he left the club due to the impact that he had in his short tenure at Old Trafford. One of the biggest cheers he received from Manchester United's fans was due to the brace he scored against arch-rivals Liverpool on December 1, 2002.
The Uruguayan moved to Villarreal from Manchester United in 2004 and then Atletico Madrid in 2007. He also won the Golden Shoe award twice in Spain. He bagged 74 goals for Atletico and 54 for Villarreal. Towards the end of his career, Forlan also played for Mumbai City FC in the Indian Super League.
Manchester United will be delighted to have one of their own making waves several years after his retirement from football.