Former Manchester United forward Diego Forlan has made a surprising announcement – he will be venturing into the world of professional tennis at the age of 45. Forlan, a former promising junior player who opted for a career in football over tennis, will be making his ATP debut in the doubles event of the Uruguay Open in Montevideo next month, partnering with Federico Coria. This Challenger level event will be a new challenge for the World Cup golden ball winner.

Forlan’s decision to transition to tennis at this stage in his life may seem unexpected, but the Uruguayan has always had a passion for the sport. Despite choosing to pursue a successful football career that included stints at top clubs like Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, and Inter Milan, Forlan has never let go of his love for tennis. His retirement from football in 2019 allowed him to focus on other interests, leading him back to the courts where he once excelled as a junior player.

According to Forlan’s International Tennis Federation profile, he recently reached a masters final in Paraguay back in August. This achievement, along with his current ranking of 108 in the world for players aged 45 and over, showcases his dedication to the sport and his potential in this new venture. In an interview with The Athletic earlier this year, Forlan expressed his motivation for staying fit, stating, “I need something where I can run.” His commitment to training and improving his game has paid off, as he now feels confident competing against top players in Uruguay and around the world.

Forlan’s football career was marked by memorable moments, including his time at Manchester United where he became a fan favorite despite a slow start in front of goal. His performance at the 2010 World Cup stands out as one of his career highlights, where he led Uruguay to the semi-finals and earned the player of the tournament award after scoring five goals. Now, as he embarks on this new chapter in his sporting journey, fans will be eager to see how Forlan’s tennis skills translate to the professional stage.