Italian tennis player Matteo Gigante has experienced a remarkable advancement in his career on the ATP Challenger Tour. Following a challenging period in which he only secured victory in one of his final eight matches in 2023, Gigante implemented significant changes to his game, which have played a pivotal role in his ascent into the Top 150 of the PIF ATP Rankings.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season on the ATP Challenger Tour this year, boasting a 16-2 season record, which is tied for the third-highest number of wins at that level. Gigante attributes his recent success to his collaboration with new coach Marco Gulisano, with whom he has been working since December, and the benefits from his sessions with a psychologist that commenced in July.
Gigante has placed substantial emphasis on the mental aspect of his game, highlighting the importance of not only on-court training but also the mental preparation off the court. He has expressed that working with a psychologist has been enriching and has significantly contributed to his recent accomplishments.
Furthermore, Gigante is part of a cohort of 12 Italians currently within the Top 150, eight of whom are under the age of 24. He has voiced his determination to build upon the achievements of his fellow Italian players and has acknowledged the support from the Federation in their professional endeavors.
Despite his recent success, Gigante’s journey in tennis began at a tender age, commencing at just three years old when he played alongside his grandfather at a local club. His decision to pursue professional tennis was solidified during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, prompting him to focus on professional tennis, resulting in notable improvements in his game.
Gigante, a left-hander who writes with his right hand akin to his idol Rafael Nadal, has clinched four ATP Challenger Tour titles, including the Bangkok Open 3 and the recent Tenerife Challenger 2. He has also underscored the challenges he faced following a demanding season and has credited his current coach, Marco Gulisano, as the linchpin of his success.
As Gigante continues to make a significant impact in the tennis world, his narrative epitomizes determination, diligence, and the pivotal role of mental and emotional support in attaining success at the professional level. With his unwavering dedication and the backing of his team, Gigante’s future in tennis appears promising, and we can anticipate more stellar performances from this gifted Italian player in the ensuing years.