My Tennis Maestro

Australian Premiere

“Entertaining without falling into excess, positive yet not overly optimistic, My Tennis Maestro is a comedy to be tasted with pleasure.” – Cineuropa

Thirteen-year-old Felice is getting ready to compete in the 1989 national tennis tournaments after years of training with his strict but supportive father, Pietro. But Pietro knows he can only take Felice so far, so he hires former tennis champ Raul Gatti as Felice’s new coach. During his time as professional player, Raul’s focus wavered from the court to drinking and womanising, and he never quite reached his full potential. While his penchant for partying is still present, he hopes the coaching job will help him get back on the straight and narrow. Will Raul be able to stay focused enough to guide the straight-faced Felice all the way to the finals?  

Italian superstar Pierfranceso Favino plays Raul with mischievous machismo hiding deep-seated self-loathing, and Tiziano Menichelli is wonderful as the young protégé who needs to loosen up. This charming, golden-hued summer road movie is about facing your opponent, adjusting your playing style and being brave enough to try again after a loss.

This film is co-presented by the Instituto Italiano di Cultura di Melbourne.

Festivals & Awards

Venice International Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection
Zurich Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection
Festival do Rio 2025 – Official Selection
Cairo International Film Festival 2025 – Official Selection