Manchester United cult hero, who made Scousers cry, set to make professional tennis debut

Former Manchester United striker Diego Forlan is set to make his debut as a professional tennis player after moving from one elite sport to another.

The 45-year-old, who announced his retirement from football in 2019, will play alongside Argentine Federico Coria in the Uruguay Open, which is held in Montevideo.

Coria is the world number 101 in singles.

Forlan’s interest in tennis dates back to his earlier years when he showed promise in the sport as a teenager. That was before he decided to focus on becoming a professional football, taking his career to Europe and scoring goals in England and Spain.

He has been playing in ITF Masters events in the 45 and over category.

However, the event Forlan will be competing in next month is a recognised ATP event, as per BBC Sport. It’s a second-tier Challenger Tour tournament and the former Uruguay striker will be a wildcard opponent.

Forlan forever cherished by Manchester United fans

“He came from Uruguay, he made the Scousers cry,” the Manchester United faithful sing.

The Uruguayan joined United in 2002 and made 98 appearances for the club before joining La Liga outfit Villarreal.

Forlan became a cult hero at Old Trafford, fondly remembered for making the Scousers cry in 2002/03. A brace at Anfield put him in the United history books forever.

He’d go on to break Anfield hearts again in 2010, scoring in extra-time of the Europa League semi-final against Liverpool for Atletico Madrid.

Hopefully, the tennis tournament turns out to be a success for Forlan. Getting as far to compete should be seen as an achievement for the former footballer.