Football Star Diego Forlan Embarks On A New Sporting Journey At The Age Of 45

Former Uruguay footballer Diego Forlan is making headlines again several years after his retirement from professional football. Diego Forlan earned a lot of fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup that was held in South Africa after he became one of the few players to be able to control the controversial World Cup ball Jabulani. He was also the golden ball winner at the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Now Forlan has decided to take a new major step in his sporting career as he leaves football behind and embarks on a new journey. 

Diego Forlan Takes New Step In Sporting Career 

Former Uruguay striker Diego Forlán will make his professional tennis debut next month when he plays doubles at an ATP Challenger tournament. 

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The 45-year-old Forlán will play with Argentina’s Federico Coria at the clay court Uruguay Open, tournament organizers confirmed. It starts Nov. 11.

Forlán, who retired from soccer in 2019, played for Manchester United, Atletico Madrid, Internazionale and Penarol.

He helped Uruguay reach the semifinals of the 2010 World Cup and win the Copa America title in 2011.

Diego Forlan Following In His Father's Footsteps

Forlán has played ITF Masters tournaments since last year. He said his father, Pablo Forlán, who was also a footballer, also played tennis after his retirement. 

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“He started playing at age 41. That’s also why I have played (tennis) since I was 2,” the former Uruguay striker said. 

Forlan is all set to make his tennis debut next month at the Uruguay open.

(With AP Inputs)