Sebastián Varela Receives 2025 Tom Perrotta Prize for Tennis Journalism

In a remarkable recognition of his contributions to the field of tennis journalism, Sebastián Varela, a 32-year-old Chilean journalist and co-founder of the digital publication CLAY, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Tom Perrotta Prize for Tennis Journalism. The announcement was made by the International Tennis Writers' Association (ITWA) on June 17, 2025, with the award set to be presented on the eve of the US Open in New York City. The Tom Perrotta Prize, inaugurated in 2022, is designed to honor emerging journalists under the age of 35 who demonstrate excellence in tennis reporting. The award includes a cash prize of $2,000, half of which will be allocated to a tennis project in Santiago aimed at benefitting vulnerable children.

Varela's compelling storytelling was highlighted by two standout articles he submitted as part of the award process. His first piece focused on a former drug trafficker who turned his life around through tennis, while his second article chronicled the journey of Nicolás Jarry, a Chilean player who made a significant comeback following an 11-month doping ban. This blend of narratives emphasizes themes of redemption and social impact, aligning with the values that the Tom Perrotta Prize seeks to promote.

"It’s a true honor to receive the Tom Perrotta Prize," Varela stated in response to the award. "It feels like a meaningful recognition of the work I’ve done and the love I have for journalism. I’m thankful to cover tennis with CLAY, the outlet I co-founded with Sebastián Fest three years ago, which has taken me around the world doing what I enjoy most — from exploring the minds of the sport’s biggest stars to giving a voice to inspiring stories that would otherwise go unnoticed."

The CLAY publication, which operates in both English and Spanish, has been a significant platform in tennis journalism since its establishment in 2022. Its focus on interviews, features, and analytical content has garnered attention in the tennis community. The prize money will support CLAY's expansion efforts, further enhancing its coverage of the sport.

The Tom Perrotta Prize is named in memory of the esteemed American writer Tom Perrotta, whose impact on tennis journalism was tragically cut short by his untimely death at the age of 44. Varela expressed gratitude for the legacy of Perrotta, stating, "Tom’s legacy is a beautiful reminder of how important it is to keep bringing young journalists closer to this sport we all care so much about."

The award is co-sponsored by major tennis organizations including the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA), and the International Tennis Federation (ITF), reflecting a collective commitment to fostering the next generation of sports journalists. Details regarding the application process for the 2026 prize will be announced in the near future, inviting aspiring journalists to participate in this esteemed competition.

In summary, Sebastián Varela's recognition through the Tom Perrotta Prize not only marks a personal achievement but also underscores the importance of storytelling in sports journalism, particularly in highlighting issues of social significance and personal redemption within the realm of tennis.