Alex de Minaur is preparing to play against Jiri Lehecka in the round of 32 at Queen’s, feeling unusually refreshed. Following his early exit from Roland-Garros, he openly critiqued the relentless tour schedule that has kept him in constant play over recent years, leading to both mental and physical fatigue. Despite the risks to his ranking, the world No. 12 decided to forgo defending his title at Rosmalen to prioritise his well-being.
De Minaur expressed his dire need for a break, acknowledging that missing events could affect his Wimbledon seeding, yet he realised the importance of stepping back. He reflected on the intense and stressful nature of professional tennis, describing how unusual it felt to have time off, which he spent living a more ‘normal’ life—enjoying coffee, dining, visiting parks, and playing golf.
After a disappointing loss to Alexander Bublik, de Minaur came to understand the toll his hectic schedule had taken on him. This defeat prompted introspection, leading him to take two weeks off tennis entirely. This break allowed him to recharge both mentally and physically, helping him regain the energy and enjoyment that are quintessential to his game.
Though he has slipped out of the top 10 in rankings during this hiatus, de Minaur is confident that taking a step back will yield long-term benefits. He aims to shift his focus from the pressures of rankings to the joy of playing. Emphasising the importance of nurturing a player’s mentality, he hopes to concentrate his efforts on significant tournaments rather than succumbing to the pressures of a packed schedule.
As he gears up for his match, de Minaur feels revitalised and ready to showcase his skills, looking forward to the challenge ahead.