Novak
Djokovic invited Alejandro Tabilo to train with him before the Rome Open, but
the Chilean declined the invitation. According to Chilean media, the 24-time
Grand Slam champion asked Tabilo to join him for four days of training in
Montenegro.
The
26-year-old player, who had been eliminated in the first round of the Madrid
Open by Flavio Cobolli, declined the invitation on the advice of his father and
instead traveled to the Challenger Aix-en-Provence, where he ended up winning
the title a week before his incredible run in Rome.
Tabilo's rejection of Djokovic
Weeks
before facing each other in the Italian tournament, the Serbian called Tabilo
to propose training together for four days in Montenegro, with all expenses
paid. However, Tabilo decided to reject the invitation, a decision that proved
crucial for what happened later: "I
told him not to go. They were already watching him. Obviously, it was the right
call," said Ricardo Tabilo, the player's father.
Tabilo defeated Djokovic by 6-2, 6-3 in the Round of 32. It took him just 68 minutes.
The
left-hander has had a dream month in May with eight consecutive victories.
Tabilo achieved his first wins against top-20 opponents consecutively,
defeating Djokovic and then Karen Khachanov (No. 16). In the quarter-finals, he
also surpassed China's Zhang Zhizhen before losing in a tight match to
Alexander Zverev in the semi-finals.
The
Chilean's excellent weeks of tennis have allowed him to climb to world No. 25
and secured a seeded spot in the upcoming French Open. Tabilo has never
participated in the main draw of Roland Garros and has only made four
appearances in Grand Slam main draws.
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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