Interview – Nauhany Silva & Luis Guto Miguel: ‘Roland

For the winners heading to Paris, what’s the one experience you simply can’t miss at Roland-Garros?

Nauhany Silva: Just being at Roland-Garros is an unforgettable experience, but if there’s one thing the winners absolutely can’t miss, it’s stepping onto the court and soaking in the tournament’s atmosphere. The energy from the crowd and the history all around make it truly special.

Luis Guto Miguel: One thing they absolutely shouldn’t miss is watching the professional matches and observing how the pros operate: their routines, their discipline, how they prepare. Seeing firsthand just how demanding it is to reach that level is invaluable for young players. It’s an experience that really opens your eyes to what it takes.

Back in 2024, what was it like to play in Paris for the very first time? How did you handle the excitement and pressure to compete in your first Grand Slam?

Nauhany Silva: It was truly a dream come true. Roland-Garros has always been one of my favorite tournaments, so I was excited and curious to experience it up close. There’s always pressure in competition – especially at a Grand Slam – but I focused on making the most of every moment and fully living this unique experience.

Luis Guto Miguel: Playing at Roland-Garros in 2024 was an incredible experience for me. I won my first match there, but I still remember my legs shaking with excitement when I first stepped onto the court. That’s completely normal. Once you settle your nerves and start enjoying the moment, you can really make the most of everything the tournament has to offer.

This year marks the 5th edition of Roland-Garros Junior Series by Renault, bringing together the best junior talents from Latin America in Sao Paulo to compete for a wild card in Paris. How would you describe the value brought by this tournament to Brazilian juniors?

Nauhany Silva: Roland-Garros Junior Series by Renault was a true turning point in my career. I started the week as one person and finished it being more confident and determined to keep improving. It was an incredible experience that I’ll never forget. For us Brazilians, it’s a unique chance to compete at this level and to chase the dream of earning a spot in a Grand Slam.

Luis Guto Miguel: This tournament is hugely important because it opens so many doors for young players. Beyond the chance to play a Grand Slam and earn valuable ranking points, it’s a truly unique experience. Very few players – especially Brazilians and South Americans – get to compete in a junior Grand Slam, so this event can really speed up your development and create major opportunities for your future.

Except for the 2023 edition, Brazilian juniors have won each edition and qualified for Roland-Garros Juniors in Paris. In your opinion, what’s the key strength of Brazilian tennis players compared to the rest of the world?

Nauhany Silva: Brazilian tennis is really in a positive place right now. Recent results – especially from Joao Fonseca, who also came through Roland-Garros Junior Series by Renault – have inspired a whole new generation. We have a strong foundation, with many players working hard and believing they can go far on the tour.

Luis Guto Miguel: I think Brazilian players have a unique motivation. We know Grand Slam opportunities are rare, so we value them immensely. Roland-Garros has a special place in our hearts because of Guga, who has won it three times and inspired all of us. Everyone dreams of experiencing that moment, even as juniors on the same courts as the pros. Plus, the support from Brazilian fans is incredible, we really lift each other up, and that makes a big difference.

Wherever you play in the world, Brazilian fans are there cheering for you. How do you feel about that and how do you explain this deep passion they have for tennis?

Nauhany Silva: I think Guga really changed how Brazilians connect with tennis, and now, with Joao and Bia (Beatriz Haddad Maia, ed.) achieving great results, that passion is even stronger. Brazilians are incredibly passionate about sports and feeling that support is amazing. Everywhere I play, there’s always someone cheering for me and it makes a huge difference on the court. I absolutely love it!

Luis Guto Miguel: It means a lot to me. Brazilians are so passionate about cheering, maybe thanks to our football culture, and we bring that same energy to tennis. In every match I played at Roland-Garros Junior Series by Renault, the fans supported me from start to finish. It sometimes feels like the crowd is right there with you on the court. That’s something truly unique and special about Brazil.

What advice would you give to the junior players competing in 2026 Roland-Garros Junior Series by Renault?

Nauhany Silva: My advice is to enjoy every minute of this amazing tournament. The energy and atmosphere at Roland-Garros are unlike anything you’ll find at other junior events. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that can make a real difference in your career.

Luis Guto Miguel: My main advice is to enjoy the experience as much as you can and give it everything you’ve got on the court. This tournament is truly special and could open many doors for your future.

Click here to read article