Gabriella Sabatina ‘s Statue Left in Shambles, Vandals made Aways With its Invaluable Part. You won’t believe what was stolen

In an unfortunate incident that tarnished the newly unveiled tribute to Argentine tennis legend Gabriela Sabatini, vandals recently targeted her statue in Buenos Aires. The statue, proudly holding a tennis racket, was defaced as the criminals made off with the bronze-colored racket, leaving Sabatini without her iconic tennis gear. This act of vandalism occurred just a few weeks after the statue’s grand unveiling on the scenic Rio de la Plata waterfront.

Located among tributes to other Argentine sporting greats like tennis star Guillermo Vilas and basketball sensation Manu Ginobili, Sabatini’s statue was meant to celebrate her remarkable career achievements. As officials plan to honor more sporting icons, including soccer legends Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona, and golfer Roberto de Vicenzo, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the need to protect these artistic tributes.

Created by artist Carlos Benavidez using polyester resin, fiberglass, and various paints, inks, and oils that mimic bronze, the statue was designed to withstand the elements. Gabriela Sabatini, who, during her 11-year professional career, secured 27 titles, including a memorable victory over Steffi Graf at the US Open in 1990. She remains the only Argentine to have clinched a Grand Slam singles title, solidifying her status as a tennis legend in her home country and beyond.

This unfortunate act of vandalism not only damages a symbol of sporting excellence but also serves as a reminder of the need for greater vigilance in safeguarding public art installations. Sabatini’s statue, once a proud representation of her achievements, now stands empty-handed, a somber testament to the destructive actions of vandals.