Luisana Schönberger, a 16-year-old tennis prodigy ranked No. 4 nationally in the under-10 category, was killed in a car crash early Sunday morning while celebrating Argentina's World Cup quarter-final victory over Switzerland. The incident occurred on the main avenue in Eldorado City, Misiones Province, Argentina.
Crash Details
According to police, Schönberger was a front-seat passenger in a Volkswagen Golf that lost control at high speed, rear-ending a Toyota Corolla before crashing into a tree. CCTV footage showed the Golf speeding behind a Ford Escort, which swerved to avoid the Corolla, but the Golf struck it directly. Authorities are investigating whether the vehicles were involved in an illegal street race; a third car has been seized.
The driver, Renzo Retamozo, 20, also died in the crash. Three other passengers—aged 16, 17, and 20—were injured, one critically. The group had been participating in street celebrations after Argentina's 3-1 win over Switzerland in the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals. A large Argentine flag was visible in the rear window of the Golf.
Tributes to the Prodigy
Schönberger, affectionately known as 'Luchi,' had trained at the Eldorado Lawn Tennis Club since childhood. The club called her their 'adopted daughter' and praised her immense talent. The Argentine Tennis Association posted an emotional tribute: 'The Argentine tennis family is in mourning. With deep sorrow we mourn the loss of Luisana Schönberger,' highlighting her dedication and success in junior events.
Her secondary school, Instituto Superior San José, also paid tribute to the popular pupil. Friends and the local tennis community flooded social media with tributes to the talented teenager whose bright future was cut tragically short.
Aftermath
Her funeral took place on Sunday afternoon. The investigation into her death is ongoing. Argentina faces England in a World Cup semi-final tonight.
