Q.) You didn’t go down the traditional route for a British player, in 2014 you moved to Memphis, USA, to join a tennis academy. Why did you make that decision, and how did you benefit from it?
A.) Yes I went to Memphis, but it was to a University on a tennis scholarship. I made the decision to play college tennis because I was receiving interest from a lot of college coaches when I finished my high school but I didn’t know that much about it. I ended up going on a recruiting trip to the University of Memphis and I absolutely loved it. I wasn’t the most developed kid at 18 so going to college gave me a chance to develop physically and mentally. It allowed me to add things to my game so that I was ready for the pro tour afterwards.
Q.) Last year was your first full season in the pro ranks, you won two ITF titles in Cancun. You must look back on last year with immense pride, and be excited for the future?
A.) Yeah, it’s kind of funny to think that I had my first ever full season as a pro when I was 23 but I am very proud of how it went. Before college I would win an odd round in futures so to win two titles last year shows me that the hard work that I put in was worth it. I am definitely excited for the future and am setting new goals to achieve.
Q.) In comparison to other players, you have joined the pro ranks a little later than usual. Do you have aims to rise through the ranks quickly, or is it about just taking each tournament as it comes?
A.) Playing college tennis is the reason that I have joined the pro tour so late but I don’t regret it at all. I was able to have four years of team tennis that you can’t experience anywhere else. I do want to rise through the ranks as quickly as I can but I also try to enjoy each part of it. Playing in challengers has been a fun experience that I can’t wait to do more of.
Q.) You recently reached the top 400 in rankings, what are you working on in your game to ensure you continue to climb the rankings, and challenge for titles regularly?
A.) Yes, it was definitely a milestone for me. I have been improving my fitness which has been helping a lot, including my explosive strength and mobility. I think confidence and belief are two huge things needed to challenge for titles regularly and they are something that can be worked on all the time.
Q.) You had a very busy 2019 on tour. With this time off, are you still working hard to improve parts of your game or are you taking a break from the practice courts?
A.) Yes it was a busy year, but I had a good break at the end of it so I was ready to go at the start of this year. With what is going on with the corona virus, staying healthy has been the top priority. I have also been trying to stay fit and keep my hand-eye co-ordination going.
Q.) Are you a player that has specific long-term targets that you want to achieve in your career, to drive and motivate you to become a better player and achieve. Or do you prefer not putting pressure on yourself?
A.) I used to be someone who didn’t like putting any pressure on myself, but the last few years I have been writing down goals that I want to achieve and it has worked much better for me because I find it gives me more motivation and satisfaction when I achieve it.
Q.) The mens game is as good as it’s ever been right now, so many different styles. Is there one player you study and learn from?
A.) No I don’t study a particular player, but I do study players if I know that I am going to play them. Every advantage helps.
Q.) Finally, the GOAT race in mens tennis is very tight. Federer (20) Nadal (19) Djokovic (17). Who do you think finishes with the most grand slam titles?
A.) I think that Djokovic will finish with the most grand slams just because he is such a threat on all of the surfaces.
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