The Voices Behind the Rise of Tennis’ Next Generation: Landaluce and Cina
The ascent of promising young tennis players like Martin Landaluce and Federico Cina isn’t solely about raw talent; it’s profoundly shaped by the unwavering support and guidance of their coaches – and, in one case, a father’s dual role. These relationships, built on trust and a deep understanding of the mental fortitude required in the sport, are proving pivotal as these athletes strive for success on the ATP Tour.
In a sport often characterized by individual performance, the influence of a strong coaching presence can be easily overlooked. For Landaluce, currently vying for a spot at the 2025 Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF, the journey has been about cultivating the right partnership to unlock his potential.
Landaluce’s collaboration with coach Oscar Burrieza began unconventionally, with a phone call initiated by the player’s father when Landaluce was just 14 years old. Burrieza, already established working with professional players in Madrid, was initially approached with a degree of uncertainty. “He wasn’t sure if I’d be open to coaching a 14-year-old,” Burrieza recalled in a September interview. “He asked me if I knew him.”
Intrigued, Burrieza took the initiative to scout Landaluce’s game online. “Immediately, I liked what I saw,” he said. “From the first time we met, we had a good connection. Even early on, I could see he was a really nice kid, mature for his age, responsible. On court, he was ready to work and eager to learn. Honestly, it was easy to start working with him.”
That initial ease has blossomed into a years-long partnership defined by discipline, consistent progress, and a crucial sense of perspective. Landaluce’s achievements – including the 2022 US Open Boys’ singles title and ATP Challenger Tour titles in 2024 and 2025 – culminating in a career-high No. 110 ranking in the PIF ATP Rankings as of October, are a testament to this dynamic.
However, Burrieza emphasizes that success isn’t merely about results. “As a coach, every time you get a good result with your player, you feel proud and happy,” he explained. “Happy for them, but also for yourself and the work you’ve put in. When Martin became World No. 1 in juniors…those were very special moments. But honestly, not much changes. We enjoy the training weeks, not just the competition.”
What truly distinguishes Landaluce, according to Burrieza, is his remarkable mental resilience. “For me, his balance, mentally, is one of his biggest talents,” Burrieza stated. “Tennis is mentally brutal. Most weeks, you lose. But Martin has this ability to wake up the next day and get back to practice like nothing happened. He resets emotionally.” This consistency, whether preparing for a major tournament like the Madrid Open or a smaller Futures event, is a rare and invaluable asset.
Burrieza fosters this resilience by providing Landaluce with space, independence, and a supportive environment. “We don’t need to be friends because I’m his coach,” Burrieza clarified. “I care about him a lot, as a person. I love him, and I truly want the best for him.”
This emphasis on the human connection extends to other rising stars in the #NextGenATP ranks. Italian Federico Cina’s progress, highlighted by his first tour-level win in Miami and three ATP Challenger Tour finals appearances, is deeply intertwined with the guidance of his father and coach, Francesco Cina.
The dual role presents unique challenges. “That’s maybe the hardest part, he’s the coach on court and dad off court,” Cina admitted. “But my dad is really good at separating the two. On court, he talks to me like a coach, and off court he’s just my dad. I like having that balance. It’s very cool, and I feel lucky.”
Their collaborative approach extends to analyzing opponents, refining practice routines, and, crucially, maintaining a positive mindset. “My coach and my dad remind me to keep enjoying practice,” Cina said. “Keeping that spirit is very important, and the results will come.”
Burrieza will be focused on supporting Landaluce as he competes at the Next Gen ATP Finals presented by PIF in Jeddah. Meanwhile, Cina continues to develop alongside his father, aiming to qualify for the 20-and-under event in 2026. These stories underscore a vital truth: in the demanding world of professional tennis, the voices guiding the next generation are often the most powerful force behind their success.
This is the fifth feature of our Next Gen ATP series Next in Line. Read our other stories here:
[Wimbledon dreams, Nishikori’s run & Vinci’s courtside lessons: Next Gen stars share memories](link placeholder)
[Next Steps: How Tien, Basavareddy & Engel are making the leap](link placeholder)
[Learning from Legends: Nadal, Cilic & Ram inspiring #NextGenATP stars](link placeholder)
[Fuel for the future: Inside the mindset of the best youngsters](link placeholder)
