What inspired you to start coaching? / What is your biggest motivation to coach?
My cousin was the first person who inspired me to become a player, and later, a tennis coach. He was the hitting partner of Juan Carlos Ferrero (former world number 1) when I was very young, and I was fascinated watching him play with my idol. As a teenager, I realized it would be almost impossible for me to become a professional player, so I had already decided I wanted to become a tennis coach, following in my cousin’s footsteps. I would say he has been like a mentor to me.
My biggest motivation to coach is to stay connected to the sport from a different perspective. I want to share the passion I have for tennis with my players and help them reach their highest potential.
What is your perfect student like?
The perfect student doesn’t exist. But if I had to define one, it would be someone who is very motivated and committed to the learning process—someone who trusts the coach and tries to absorb knowledge and apply it in every training session and match.
What is your coaching style?
I would say my coaching style is professional and adaptable. I tailor each lesson to the player’s level and needs. I’m passionate and very intense on court—an involved, active coach.
How do you measure progress in your students?
There are several ways to measure a student’s progress. There are tests that allow us to evaluate technical, tactical, physical, and mental improvements, both quantitatively and qualitatively. One drill I often use to measure progress is rallying: seeing how many balls the player can hit with me in a row without making a mistake. It’s a simple consistency drill that gives both the player and coach a clear sense of progress.
Progress can also be observed through match results. However, I don’t always like to rely solely on this, since match outcomes also depend on the opponent’s performance.
An interesting fact or moment from your tennis or coaching career:
One interesting fact is that tennis has allowed me to travel all around the world. I’ve had the opportunity to work as a coach on three different continents and at several world-renowned academies, coaching talented players. This experience has helped me grow professionally and personally. What fascinates me most is seeing how different players are in every country. Each player is unique, and that’s what makes this job so special.
Any tips for players (at any level) who want to improve?
First of all, they need to understand that a tennis career is a long process, and they must respect that. It’s important to set short-, mid-, and long-term goals and work on them every day with the coach. With trust in the coach and the whole team, they will reach their goals step by step.
They must also develop key values to succeed. Talent is not everything. You need to put in effort during training, show respect and discipline toward the sport and your coach, and work hard every day. The goal should always be to become the best version of yourself. That’s the key to improvement.
IMS Tennis 