“It was crazy, a very good final,” that’s all Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard could say after one of the most crucial accomplishments of his career. The 21-year-old wildcard made it to the finals at the Lyon Open where he faced Tomas Martin Etcheverry in a gripping showdown. This not only marked a major milestone in his career but also added the third tour-level title to his tally. While we have seen Mpetshi’s extraordinary talent and his high level of athleticism, where does that come from? Well, from his family, especially his parents. Let’s dive deep and find out more about them.

Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard’s story is one of determination, family support, and love for tennis that started when he was just a kid. The 21-year-old was born to Guylain Mpetshi, a former soccer player, and Sylvie Perricard. He grew up in a family where sports were a way of life. His father’s background in soccer taught Giovanni discipline and focus, while his sisters, Ariane and Daphnee, set an example of success in basketball and tennis.

However, despite the extensive knowledge that emerged from his father and sister, it’s his mother, Sylvie, whom Giovanni calls his hero. She played a huge role when he left home at 12 to train with the French Tennis Federation in Poitiers. “My mother, Sylvie, is my hero,” Mpetshi said in an interview with the Tennis Channel, appreciating her belief in him.

Though tennis isn’t a very popular sport in Mpetshi’s birthplace, the Democratic Republic of Congo, he fell in love with it from a young age. He learned the basics that would carry him through the challenges of pursuing a career in a sport he was passionate about.

Mpetshi’s journey took an exciting turn when he teamed up with coach Emmanuel Planque in December 2023. Planque is known for helping players like Lucas Pouille rise through the ranks. He started working with Mpetshi and two other young players, Arthur Fils, and Sean Cuenin, after joining the French Tennis Federation in 2021.

Now, Planque’s experience and insights are guiding Mpetshi as he refines his game and tackles the professional circuit. With his family’s unwavering support and a talented coach by his side, Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard is ready to take on whatever comes next.

Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard’s fanship for Rafael Nadal and a common love for soccer

Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, the World No. 58, holds a special place in his heart for the French Open. His favorite tournament reflects his admiration for 14-time champion Rafael Nadal, whose success on the clay courts of Roland Garros has inspired him from a young age.

Mpetshi is an avid sports fan with a love for soccer off the court, especially Olympique Lyonnais. “Football. I watch a lot of football because I’m a big fan of Olympique Lyonnais,” he shared after his title-win in Lyon. To relax during his travels, he turns to video games, which he says help him unwind and feel at home on the road. “I like to play video games, that helps me on the road,” he adds.

Beyond soccer, Mpetshi admires athletes like Ronaldo, eight-time Grand Prix champion Lewis Hamilton, and basketball star LeBron James, seeing in each of them a model of excellence and dedication. At the age of 21, Mpetshi has found a balance in his life, as he spends time with friends and enjoys life while his tennis career continues to rise.

Do you think Mpetshi will be able to continue the momentum and make a huge climb in the world rankings going forward? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.