Tennis

Tennis is not the most popular sport in Brazil, but it retains popularity in Florianopolis, mainly down to the success of the island’s favourite son. Gustavo Kuerten was World Number 1 at the end of the 2000 season after winning the second of his three French Open titles that year. He also won another 17 career titles including 5 ATP Masters Series titles to become the most successful tennis player that Brazil has ever produced. Guga popularised tennis on the island and Brazil’s Davis Cup matches were held in the city on a regular basis during his 12 year professional career.

The chance to represent his country was always relished by Guga, who regularly wore the colours of the national football team, yellow shirt and blue shorts. His last professional match at the French Open in 2008 was lost wearing his favourite outfit. Following his retirement, it remains to be seen if professional tennis will still be as popular in Floripa, or whether Brazil will still be able to make a mark on the world stage. Whatever happens, the easy going and humble Kuerten will remain a popular figure around the island and around the tennis world.