To think top ATP player, Juan Monaco, only knows tennis? Think again. The South American player grew up in Argentina where the country is more famously known for Diego Maradona and football, and even if he is in Singapore to showcase his talent, he shared exclusively with Junpiter Futbol on his favorite sport, football, other than tennis!
JPF: South America seems to reign in football especially with Brazil & Argentina being popular favorites. As a South American, do you think that you guys are the best in football?
JM: No, I don’t think we are the best of course. We have great players who play in the best clubs of the world, but that doesn’t mean we are the best at all.
JPF: With all the competition, how’s the football rivalry between Argentina and Brazil like in real life?
JM: Well, there is a very good rivalry. Argentina and Brazil have always fought to be the best National Teams in South America and also in the world.
JPF: Which is your favorite Argentina football team and Argentine player?
JM: I am a supporter of Estudiantes de La Plata. I think we have a lot of great players in Argentina, I am afraid to choose just one.
JPF: As a top tennis player in the sporting arena, do you have a chance to play against or meet some of the best football players in your country?
JM: Yes, I know many Argentinean players! I would really like to play football with them sometimes!
JPF: FIFA World Cup 2014 will be hosted by Brazil, what do you think of that?
JM: That’s just great! I am sure they will organize a great event. It is going to be exciting!
JPF: Although you are one of the top tennis players in the world, have you ever thought of trading your tennis racket for a pair of football boots?
JM: (Hehehe) I better play tennis….
JPF: Messi or Neymar?
JM: They are two great players. We should only answer this questions once they have finished their careers. It is difficult to judge now.
JPF: Pele or Maradona?
JM: Maradona has been one of the most important icons of Argentina and not only as a football player. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to see the legendary Pele playing live.
Catch Juan Monaco in action at the Clash of Continents, 24-25 November 2012, at Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets on sale at all SISTIC outlets. More information, please check out Clash of Continents’ Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ClashofContinents)
photo: tennis photo library
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