Matteo Della Fiorentina has been showing dedication and effort in windsurfing both foil and fin. He is now in Tenerife with the Black Team to push forward his level.
Can you tell us how you first got into windsurfing and what inspired you to pursue it at such a high level?I first tried windsurfing at the age of 13, inspired by my father who has practiced it as a hobby since I was a child. I began practicing daily during the summer and quickly made significant progress. As I improved, I decided to take the next step and start competing in more prestigious events.
Windsurfing is known to be physically demanding. What kind of training regimen do you follow to stay at the top of your game? To stay at the top of my game, I maintain a rigorous training routine that includes gym workouts and a proper nutritional plan. I prioritize sufficient rest and ensure I take care of my health to perform at my best.
As a young athlete, how do you balance school, social life, and your commitment to windsurfing? Is it a challenge? I wouldn’t necessarily consider it a challenge; rather, it’s an essential part of this lifestyle. I approach it with passion and enthusiasm, and I genuinely enjoy the process.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your windsurfing journey so far, and how did you overcome it? One of my proudest achievements was joining the PWA Tour. Last year, at the age of 17, I participated in my first PWA event in Fuerteventura. My focus was on doing my best and having fun while competing against some of the world’s top athletes.
Windsurfing requires not just physical skill, but mental toughness as well. How do you prepare mentally for a competition, especially when there’s pressure on you to perform well?Before a competition, I focus entirely on the task at hand, switching off any distractions. I make sure to relax and rest in the days leading up to the event. I prefer to arrive early at the beach to prepare my gear independently, ensuring I stay calm and focused
What kind of support system do you have from your family, coaches, or sponsors? How important has that been in helping you get to where you are today?I genuinely hope that the hard work and sacrifices I’m making will pay off in the future. My ultimate dream is to compete on the full tour and, one day, to have windsurfing as my professional career.
Now that you’ve reached the podium, what are your goals for next year?While I can’t predict exactly where I’ll be in five years, I aspire to be ranked in the top 3 in the world. That is my ultimate goal.
