Magali de Lattre Takes on the ITF World Tennis Masters Tour

Join us as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Magali de Lattre, former professional tennis player and co-owner of Aria Sportscape Academy. In this interview, Magali shares her journey from competing on the international tennis stage to nurturing the next generation of athletes in Dubai. She also reveals her excitement and challenges as she prepares to represent Portugal at the 2024 ITF World Tennis Masters Tour. Discover the passion, resilience, and dedication that drive Magali both on and off the court.

Can you share a bit about your journey from being a professional tennis player to co-owning Aria Sportscape Academy? What inspired you to take on this role?

Magali: I began playing tennis at the age of 12, and my professional career took off at 17. Over six years, I competed in numerous national and international tournaments, proudly representing my country on several occasions. Unfortunately, in 2011, I had to make the difficult decision to end my career, not due to injuries, but because of a lack of sponsorship and financial support. This led me to Dubai, where I started a new career as a coach. In 2022, Aria Sportscape Academy came to life. Dubai's extreme weather, including heat, sandstorms, and rain, made indoor courts a necessity, allowing us to continue enjoying tennis all year round.

What has been the most rewarding aspect of your transition from professional tennis to running a sports academy?

Magali: The most rewarding part has been watching the academy grow and building a community of adults and children who feel welcomed and eager to stay. My passion is to transfer my professional experiences to my students, seeing them improve weekly while still enjoying tennis. It’s incredibly fulfilling.

Participating in the 2024 ITF World Championship is a significant challenge. What motivated you to take on this opportunity with the Portugal team?

Magali: I have always loved representing my country. For the past two years, I received invitations to play in the world championship, but I had to decline due to my pregnancy. This year is different; I feel physically better and ready to take on the challenge. Playing for Portugal is always special, and I miss the adrenaline and excitement of competing in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

How does it feel to represent Portugal on such a prestigious platform again? What emotions are you experiencing as you prepare for the championship?

Magali: Representing Portugal feels incredibly special. The thought of playing in front of a passionate crowd, with every point cheered on, brings back amazing memories. I am thrilled and can't wait to experience that adrenaline rush again.

Can you walk us through your preparation routine for the championship? How are you balancing your training with your responsibilities at Aria Sportscape Academy?

Magali: Balancing both has been challenging as I coach for many hours. I try to fit in fitness workouts between lessons or practice with my students. It’s a juggling act, but I make it work.

What are your personal goals for the championship? What would success look like for you in this tournament?

Magali: My primary goal is to stay healthy throughout the tournament. Beyond that, I plan to take it match by match, fighting for every win.

How has your experience as a professional athlete influenced your approach to managing and growing Aria Sportscape Academy?

Magali: My professional career has forged a strong mindset in me. I am always striving for improvement, overcoming obstacles, and finding ways to grow the academy.

What lessons from your professional tennis career are you applying to your training for the ITF World Championship?

Magali: Fitness is crucial as it’s the first thing you lose when you stop playing professionally. Although I play tennis almost every day with my students, rustiness can set in. My main focus is regaining physical strength through a workout routine similar to what I followed during my professional career, adapted to my current physical state.

What are some of the biggest challenges you anticipate facing in the upcoming championship, and how are you preparing to overcome them?

Magali: I’ll be up against amazing players who have been competing all year, making them more fit. The biggest challenge will be the clay courts, which are slower and more physically demanding with longer rallies. I plan to train on clay for a week before the competition to get acclimated and feel more comfortable on the court. Mentally, I’m confident in my strength.

Who has been your biggest support system throughout your career and in preparing for this championship? How important is this support to you?

Magali: My family has been my biggest support, both in my career and now. My friends and students are also in my heart, cheering me on. Their support is crucial as I aim to help Portugal win the world championship title, and their trust in me means everything.

As Magali de Lattre embarks on her journey to the 2024 ITF World Tennis Masters Tour, we at Aria Sportscape Academy extend our heartfelt wishes for her success. We are immensely proud to have such a passionate and dedicated individual leading our academy. Good luck, Magali! The entire Aria Sportscape community is cheering you on, and we can't wait to see you shine on the world stage.