One of the
biggest improved players of 2024, Alejandro Tabilo, spoke about the influence
of Rafael Nadal on his career, whom he defined as ‘his greatest idol.’ The
Chilean rose from world No. 85 at the start of the year to the top-20, winning
his first three ATP titles across all surfaces, and finished the year as world
No. 23.
Tabilo was
one of the season’s surprises, with a quick rise from the Challenger circuit to
the ATP’s top level. He started the year with a title at the Auckland Open and
maintained good consistency throughout 2024. The pivotal moment was likely at
the Rome Open, where he made a name for himself with a remarkable victory over
Novak Djokovic (6-2, 6-3) and advanced to the semifinals of a Masters 1000 for
the first time in his career.
"It was my dream to faces Nadal"
The
27-year-old player recently gave an interview with CNN Chile, where he acknowledged
that the 22-time Grand Slam champion is his greatest idol. “Nadal is someone
who has been my idol since I was young; I tried to copy him in every way,"
"It’s
something that always motivated me about him. Even when I won tournaments, I
bit the trophy just like him. He’s someone who’s always been there as I grew
up, and nothing, Nadal will always be my greatest idol.”
Tabilo also
expressed regret over Nadal’s retirement without having faced him in official
matches. The Chilean was invited to the Laver Cup this season for the first
time in his career, and although the former world No. 1 had confirmed his
participation, he ultimately withdrew from the tournament to focus on his
retirement at the Davis Cup Finals.
Tabilo at Rome Open after beating Novak Djokovic.
“It was a
shame when he pulled out of the Laver Cup. I thought I might see him for the
last time there, but it was sad that it ended at the Davis Cup. I would’ve
liked to play at least one official match with him, which was my dream,” he
said.
The
Spaniard traveled to South America in late 2022 for several exhibitions against
Casper Ruud. However, in his visit to Santiago, Chile, his opponent was a
different one—local Alejandro Tabilo, who was ranked world No. 86 at the time.
The legendary Spaniard won 7-6(6), 6-3. “I’m still happy to have had the chance
to play an exhibition with him in Chile,” he said. “Now, he can rest; it’s been
an incredible career, and everything he’s done for tennis is greatly
appreciated.”
🎾 Alejandro Tabilo y Rafael Nadal se enfrentarán esta noche en un duelo de exhibición en el marco de la Copa Museo de la Moda en San Carlos de Apoquindo.
— Séptimo Game (@Septimo_Game) November 25, 2022
➡️ La previa del duelo entre el chileno y la leyenda de Manacor: https://t.co/51TIFxFPIW pic.twitter.com/i7uMryz5VH
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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