Argentine · Tandil, Argentina · Born 23 September 1988Argentine power-hitter who beat both Federer and Nadal to win the 2009 US Open and led Argentina to its first Davis Cup title in 2016.
Juan Martín del Potro was born on 23 September 1988 in Tandil, Argentina, and turned professional in 2005, developing into one of the most powerful ball-strikers in the history of men's tennis, standing 1.98 metres tall and combining an enormous forehand with surprising touch and movement for a player of his size. Del Potro's signature achievement came at the 2009 US Open, where, at just 20, he defeated Rafael Nadal in the semi-finals and then upset five-time defending champion Roger Federer in a five-set final to win his only Grand Slam singles title, temporarily interrupting the dominance of the sport's biggest stars during that era. Del Potro's career was repeatedly and severely disrupted by wrist injuries requiring multiple surgeries, forcing him out of action for extended periods and preventing him from fully building on his early promise. Despite this, he reached a second Grand Slam final at the 2018 US Open, losing to Novak Djokovic, and achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 3 that August. Del Potro won a silver medal in singles at the Rio 2016 Olympics and helped Argentina win its first-ever Davis Cup title in 2016. Persistent knee problems ultimately ended his career in 2022, closing out a run that, despite being cut short repeatedly by injury, produced some of the most memorable individual victories of his generation.
2009 US Open champion, huge forehand, 'Tower of Tandil'
He is the only man in Open Era history to beat both Federer and Nadal in the same Grand Slam, doing so at the 2009 US Open.
Did You Know?How They Played
Del Potro was renowned for his devastating forehand, one of the most powerful shots in tennis history, capable of generating extreme pace and depth. His tall frame at 6'6" gave him excellent reach and leverage, while his aggressive baseline game was built around dictating points with his forehand. Despite his power, he also possessed surprising touch and court craft for such a big player.
Lasting Impact
Del Potro's upset victory over Roger Federer at the 2009 US Open remains one of the most memorable Grand Slam finals, ending Federer's five-year winning streak at Flushing Meadows and announcing a new generation of talent.
Career Honours
- 1 Grand Slam singles title (2009 US Open)
- Olympic bronze (2012) and silver (2016) medallist
- Davis Cup champion (2016)
Argentine Athletes