RheoHero Co-Founder and former D1 tennis player Ludovico Cestarollo reflects on how tennis shaped him into who he is today.
Tennis has been an integral part of my life since childhood. I was introduced to the sport by my father, who is a tennis coach. He put the racket in my hand even before I could stand. This became the start of a lifelong relationship with the sport that shaped me into the person I am today, personally and professionally.
I believe tennis is the toughest sport a person can play.
To be a great tennis player, you need incredible mental strength. You are alone on the court, facing an opponent on the other side of the net; you can only count on yourself and your training. Thanks to countless hours on the tennis court, working out, and caring for my body, I have become a resilient person who embraces any challenge. The sport has helped me develop a strong sense of self and the ability to manage stress effectively.
Tennis has taught me that failure is not something to be feared but a necessary part of the journey towards success.
With tennis, I have learned to embrace failure and use it as a stepping stone to getting better. I'm reminded of this quote: "Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." On the tennis court, many variables can affect how you play—your opponent, the weather, your racket, the crowd, etc. What truly matters is the way you face adversities.
The sport has a way of bringing people together, regardless of their age, gender, or background.
Tennis has allowed me to meet new people and form lifelong friendships. It provided a platform to develop lasting connections and bond with others over a shared love for the game.
Tennis has truly shaped me into the person I am today. It has taught me valuable life skills like perseverance, discipline, and sportsmanship and has introduced me to some of the most meaningful people in my life. I am grateful for the sport and my father, who instilled this passion in me.
