David Nalbandian

David Nalbandian

David Pablo Nalbandian (born 1 January 1982) is a former professional tennis player from Argentina.

Nalbandian reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 3 in March 2006. He won 11 ATP Tour titles in singles, including the 2005 Madrid Masters and the 2007 Paris Masters. He also reached the final of the 2002 Wimbledon Championships, where he lost to Lleyton Hewitt. Nalbandian was a consistent performer in Grand Slam tournaments, reaching at least the quarterfinals 11 times. He also helped Argentina win the Davis Cup in 2006 and 2008.

Nalbandian was known for his powerful forehand and his aggressive all-court style of play. He was also a good doubles player, winning three ATP Tour titles in that discipline.

Nalbandian retired from professional tennis in 2013. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2021.

Early life and career

Nalbandian was born in Unquillo, Córdoba, Argentina. He began playing tennis at the age of five. He turned professional in 2000.

In 2002, Nalbandian had his breakthrough season. He won his first ATP Tour title in Bastad, Sweden, and reached the final of Wimbledon, where he lost to Lleyton Hewitt in four sets. He also helped Argentina win the Davis Cup for the first time in 27 years.

Peak years

Nalbandian continued to improve in the following years. He reached the semifinals of the French Open in 2004 and the Australian Open in 2006. He also won the Madrid Masters in 2005 and the Paris Masters in 2007.

In 2006, Nalbandian helped Argentina win the Davis Cup for the second time. He also reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 3.

Later career and retirement

Nalbandian began to struggle with injuries in later years. He missed the entire 2009 season with a hip injury. He returned to the tour in 2010, but he was never able to recapture his previous form.

Nalbandian retired from professional tennis in 2013. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2021.

Playing style

Nalbandian was known for his powerful forehand and his aggressive all-court style of play. He was also a good doubles player, winning three ATP Tour titles in that discipline.

Legacy

Nalbandian is considered one of the greatest Argentine tennis players of all time. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 2021.

Personal life

Nalbandian is married to Mariana de Melo and has two children. He is a keen golfer and enjoys playing the guitar.