Lorenzo Sonego – Photo Getty Images
In an ever-evolving world of tennis, the news of the end of the collaboration between Lorenzo Sonego and his historic coach “Gipo” Arbino marks the end of an era for the Turin tennis player. Sonego, known for his fighting spirit and doubles performances in the Davis Cup in Malaga with Jannik Sinner, faces a difficult 2024, having yet to win two consecutive singles matches. Currently at number 53 in the world ranking, Sonego is experiencing a moment of uncertainty regarding his participation in the Paris Olympics, feeling the need for a significant change in his career.
In a personal and touching message, Sonego addressed his coach with words that exude gratitude and affection: “Dear Gipo. After almost twenty years of living together, I feel I need new stimuli for the second part of my career.” He then added, “Thank you very much for the incredible work you have done, for all the moments shared together and all the results obtained. You are not just a coach, you are like a father, one of the most important people in my life. Our relationship and my respect for you will continue forever. I love you. Lori.”
The story of Gian Piero “Gipo” Arbino is almost legendary, a man who could have followed an opera career after passing a competition to study at the Conservatory of La Scala, but chose a different path. His life in tennis, which began almost by chance at 18, saw him transform from self-taught to recognized coach, influencing the careers of many young talents, including Sonego.
His coaching career flourished between Lido Royal and Green Park in Turin, culminating in the creation of a team at the Circolo della Stampa-Sporting and finally at Ace di Volvera. Among Arbino’s prominent students, in addition to Sonego, there were names such as Alberto Giraudo and the professionals Stefania Chieppa and Silvia Disderi.
Sonego’s decision to seek new directions and stimuli not only marks a turning point in his career but also a moment of reflection on the transitory nature of the relationship between an athlete and his coach. In tennis, as in life, the search for growth and evolution is constant. The separation from “Gipo” Arbino, a man described not only as a master but also as a father figure, highlights Sonego’s courage in pursuing new horizons, while maintaining a deep respect and affection for the bonds formed over the years. The road ahead of Lorenzo Sonego is now open to new adventures and challenges, with the certainty that the lessons learned from “Gipo” will accompany him every step of the way.
This is Lorenzo’s complete message: “Dear Gipo. After almost twenty years of living together, I feel I need new stimuli for the second part of my career.
Thank you very much for the incredible work you have done, for all the moments shared together and all the results obtained.
You are not just a coach, you are like a father, one of the most important people in my life. Our relationship and my respect for you will continue forever.
I love you”.
Lori
Francesco Paolo Villarico
