Cerundolo’s GQ Feature Lays Bare the Grind

Francisco Cerundolo trades the baseline for the spotlight in GQ Mexico and Latinoamerica, where his story cuts through the glamour to the core of a pro’s unyielding drive. The 27-year-old Argentine, fresh off a 38-25 season that cemented him at No. 21 in the PIF ATP Rankings, shares how the tour’s demands shape more than just his game. it’s a portrait of resilience, from clay-court battles to quiet moments of reflection, all captured against Buenos Aires’ vibrant backdrop.

Sacrifices carve a top 20 path

The exclusive interview, a GQ Hype feature, explores Cerundolo’s sacrifices to reach the Top 20 of the PIF ATP Rankings and the 27-year-old’s mindset as Argentina’s No. 1. He recounts the endless travel and family separations that fuel his heavy topspin forehands, often looped inside-out to wrong-foot rivals on slower surfaces. That final at the ATP 250 in Buenos Aires stood as his season’s high, the home crowd’s energy turning crosscourt passes into statements of defiance amid a grueling 38-25 ledger.

Each match tested his resolve, from early-morning drills to late-night recoveries, where slice backhands became tools to reset rallies and preserve stamina. The psychological weight of being the nation’s No. 1 amplified every down-the-line winner, yet he channeled it into a 1–2 pattern that disrupted aggressive returns. Photographed by Lucas Ricci at the Buenos Aires Rowing Club, Cerundolo’s images reflect this inner steel, styled by Gaston Olmos in fits that echo his on-court efficiency.

Mindset anchors national hopes

As Argentina’s leading light, Cerundolo’s philosophy hinges on process amid pressure, a approach that steadied him through 2025‘s clay marathons and hard-court dashes. He leans on mental resets to navigate momentum shifts, turning potential setbacks into setups for inside-in forehands that catch lines. Interviewed by Raul Vilchis, he opens up on balancing isolation with pride, where family ties ground him after tough draws.

This framework not only built his ranking security but also highlighted his surface savvy—adding loft to topspin on red dirt while sharpening underspin slices for quicker greens. The feature contrasts this intensity with off-court outlets, like fashion choices that mirror his composed net rushes. With makeup by Guadalupe Cecile via Chanel, the shoot evokes a player in full control, ready for whatever the circuit throws next.

Style bridges court and culture

The GQ piece, overseen by Head of Editorial Content Alejandro Ortiz, weaves Cerundolo’s tactical world with his personal flair, showing tennis as more than points won. His 38-25 record tells of steady climbs, from Buenos Aires roars to global quiet, each step honing a game that’s equal parts power and patience. Looking to 2026, this blend positions him to push higher, inspiring a new generation with every precise volley.