Mexican tennis has long been seeking representation in the ATP Top 100, a status that has eluded the country for the past 30 years. However, there are several national players, including Rafael de Alba, who aspire to make their mark on the professional circuit. De Alba believes that the growth in the number of tournaments hosted in Mexico recently has been beneficial for players, allowing them to improve their ranking without the financial strain of traveling abroad to compete.

In reflecting on the past, de Alba noted that when he was just 15, there were only about seven or eight international events held in Mexico each year, which was insufficient for budding talent in such a large country. Today, the landscape has changed dramatically, with around 20 professional events taking place. This not only provides more competitive opportunities but also allows local players to develop their skills without the need to leave the country, fostering a new generation of tennis talent.

Additionally, many Mexican players have pursued training in the United States, giving them access to better facilities and coaching. This combination of local tournament availability and international training has raised hopes for a new era in Mexican tennis. De Alba embodies this optimism and is keen on utilizing these conditions to enhance his game and potentially secure a place among the world's top players.