From the court to canvases: Galarneau's artistic inspiration

Canadian Alexis Galarneau has cultivated a passion for creativity by drawing canvases on his iPad.

The 25-year-old, who last year won his maiden ATP Challenger Tour title, finds inspiration from Pinterest ideas or picturesque views he has recently encountered. Galarneau will then enjoy 45 minutes indulging in his imagination.

“It keeps my mind away from other things, so it's good to do it,” Galarneau told ATPTour.com. “Whenever I have a two-or-three-hour gap just in my room chilling, I'll try to go on Pinterest and get ideas, the creativity unlocks my creativity. It helps me not think about tennis or anything else.”

One of Galarneau’s favourite pieces he has done on a drawing app is one that resembles the view outside his window at home.

“It looks over the river, a lot of trees, a little bit of downtown Montreal very far away,” Galarneau said. 

The World No. 212 in the PIF ATP Rankings also showcases his artistic flair through a series of tattoos etched into his skin. His initial tattoo was a joint decision with his two brothers, Max-Olivier and Felix, to ink an ‘X’ on their left arms, symbolising how they each have the letter in their first name.

^{Credit: Mexico City Open}

Galarneau also has tattoos of a Mexican sugar skull, the Quebec emblem, and two roses— a tribute to his mother and sister. “They are a big part of my life,” he said. These tattoos serve as visual testaments to the influences that have shaped Galarneau’s identity.

A former two-time ITA All-American at North Carolina State University, Galarneau grew up speed skating, playing soccer and tennis. The Canadian credits speed skating as his first exposure to individual sports and soccer was a chance to try a team environment.

But Galarneau was drawn towards the individual aspect of speed skating and tennis. “Coming from a big family, it kind of made me have my little project and ways to figure things out. It was challenging and that's what I like about it. I think it shaped me in a good way,” he said.

At age 11, Galarneau fully committed to tennis, spurred by a significant opportunity that came knocking on his door.

“I think the big tell for me was when I got an invitation from the National Federation that they wanted to coach me and help develop me into a pro tennis player,” Galarneau said. “I had to make some choices and I made those at 11. I'm glad I took it that early. It definitely was a big decision, but it didn't feel big at the time.”

Last year’s Granby Challenger champion has endured a difficult start to this season, citing an upper right arm injury that only allowed him to compete in three tournaments in as many months. 

Now back at full health and in action at this week’s Mexico City Open, Galarneau is keen on finding his best level again, while also finding the appropriate time to disconnect from tennis, whether it be via drawing or watching his alma mater’s men’s and women’s basketball teams, which will play in the NCAA Final Four this weekend.

“I'm watching them as much as I can. I get pretty excited when they win,” Galarneau said. “It's been really inspiring to see those guys compete, the run that they are on. Both teams are pretty impressive to watch.”