Nov. 16, 2017
AUBURN, Ala. - Lorenzo Joaquin Rodriguez of Buenos Aires, Argentina, will join the Auburn men's tennis program in January, head coach Bobby Reynolds announced today.
"After watching and recruiting Lorenzo for more than a year, I'm thrilled he has elected to pursue his college tennis career with us at Auburn," Coach Reynolds said. "Lorenzo has the determination to succeed both in tennis and in the classroom, where he wants to study mechanical engineering.
"Growing up on the clay courts of Argentina taught Lorenzo point construction and patience, and standing 6-4, his height will help him transition to the hard courts of collegiate tennis where his serve will be a huge weapon. His maturity, work ethic and attention to detail were evident during the recruiting process and we believe big things are in store for Lorenzo here at Auburn."
Rodriguez has qualified for the main draw in Futures events. His highest ATP-ranked win was over ATP 755 Alan Kohen. His UTR has been as high as 13.8 and is currently 13.2. He has won nine junior national championships in Argentina, a professional national title and advanced to 11 junior national finals.
"Lorenzo is an incredibly smart and determined person. He is a hard worker and is gifted with a great physique for tennis," said assistant coach Mark Finnegan. "His maturity and leadership qualities are exactly what we are looking for, and his game can beat anyone in the country."
"I chose Auburn because of its prestigious engineering program and the passion for sports," Rodriguez said. "I have the opportunity to join a really good tennis team and work with two excellent coaches, and the campus and facilities are something unbelievable.
"What I like most about Auburn is that everyone treats each other like family. The passion they have for sports and all the traditions make Auburn special."
The Tigers previously signed Matteo De Vincentis of Rome, Italy. Auburn will open the spring dual match season Sunday, January 14, hosting Jackson State in a pair of matches at the Yarbrough Tennis Center.