Alejandro Tabilo Finds Success on South American Clay, Credits Mental Fortitude and Marcelo Ríos’ Influence

Alejandro Tabilo is experiencing a successful stretch on the South American clay tour. After reaching the quarterfinals in Buenos Aires, he has achieved the same result at the ATP 500 in Rio, demonstrating strong form early in the season.

Improved Mental Game Fuels Tabilo’s Performance

Tabilo has been actively working on his mental game, which he believes is contributing to his success. He stated, I am talking to psychologists and I have been much better. This work has allowed him to approach matches with greater calm and support from those closest to him.

I am calmer, supporting myself with the closest people who have always been there. I am always happy to have them and I am very grateful, I am much calmer and more relaxed on the court.

Remembering the Impact of Marcelo Ríos

Tabilo reflected on the influence of Chile’s Golden Generation of tennis players, particularly Marcelo Ríos, Fernando González, and Nicolás Massú. He considers them to be his role models.

Tabilo revealed that he has always admired Ríos, even watching his matches on YouTube as a child. He also acknowledged that Ríos provided valuable advice early in his career, particularly during his first Davis Cup appearance.

The first Davis Cup I was in could help me a lot.

Tabilo noted that Ríos appreciated his aggressive playing style, which differs from the more defensive approach common among South American players.

He liked how I played because he wasn’t the typical South American, a goalkeeper and who played from behind. I play very forward and he liked that, he (Ríos) played close to the line like that with angle and decision. He always said he liked how aggressive he was.

Looking Ahead

Tabilo (ranked 68th) will continue his campaign at the ATP 500 in Rio de Janeiro, facing Thiago Tirante (ranked 92nd) in the quarterfinals. A win would propel him further up the ATP rankings and position him within reach of his first title of the year.

Tabilo’s recent success highlights the growing strength of Chilean tennis and his potential to turn into a major force on the ATP Tour. His blend of aggressive play and improved mental resilience makes him a player to watch in the coming months.