Imanol López (Zumaia, 1984), a prominent figure in cesta punta, will retire from professional Jai Alai this Monday in front of his home crowd at the Zumaia Master Series final. The match, scheduled for 6:00 PM, will see him team up with Aritz Erkiaga against the duo of Olharan-Lekerika. This marks the end of a remarkable 23-year career.
López boasts an impressive record, including six World Doubles Txapelas, two Individual Txapelas, the Nations League title, and two Jai Alai League victories, among others. In total, he has amassed 78 txapelas. His father, a devoted fan, recently counted the 76 stored at home, with López himself possessing two more.
“"I'm going to say two. The first is the Odieta in Zumaia, where I grew up. I am the pelota player I am thanks to it. I honed my skills in a 40-meter fronton, where we played everything. It's part of me. Afterwards, without getting into others I like more or less, I'm going to choose the one that developed me most personally: the Miami Jai Alai."
The player highlights the exceptional chemistry he shared with Iñaki Osa Goikoetxea on the court, emphasizing their ability to understand each other “with a glance.” Conversely, Eric Irastorza served as both a role model and his most challenging opponent, underscoring the significance of competing against him after transitioning from amateur to professional ranks.
López stated that physical limitations are increasing rapidly, and he wished to retire while feeling good and achieving positive results, which he has accomplished. He affirms that the Zumaia Master Series will be an opportunity to enjoy his farewell.
