Musetti explains how being a father has helped him become a better tennis player

Lorenzo Musetti surprised the world a little over a year ago by announcing he was expecting a child with his partner. The 22-year-old Italian player, after overcoming the initial phase of uncertainty and nerves, has used fatherhood as a strength on the court, as was evident last July at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he won the bronze medal by defeating Felix Auger-Aliassime. Now, with some perspective, Musetti reflects on how having a child has helped him perform better in the world of tennis.

"I was very afraid of everything, honestly," Lorenzo confessed in an interview with Tennis.com. "Especially when he was just born. I was even afraid to hold him. When the nurse handed him to me for the first time, I held him in a very natural way. It was amazing. I like putting him to bed, even though sometimes it takes a while and you have to be patient."

"The birth of my son brought me a lot of responsibility in my role as a player, not just as a father. That's where I feel I'm improving the most. Nevertheless, I believe I have to do more, which will probably bring better results. I feel very connected to my family, the one we have created. When I have the opportunity, they come with me, and it feels great."

Looking towards the future

"These past eight months have gone by so quickly, and I've seen many changes in my son. I can only think about the future, when he'll start walking, talking, or understanding what I do," said Musetti, who has had an incredible year with an Olympic medal (bronze) included, coming close to his best career ranking, reaching three finals, although he did not add any new titles to his collection.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Musetti explica cómo ser padre le ha ayudado a ser mejor tenista