In an interview with Eurosport, 23-year-old Felix Auger-Aliassime reflected on the challenges of his 2023 tennis season, marked by injuries and uncertainties. Despite the difficulties, he discussed his relationship with coach Toni Nadal and shared his enduring ambition to win a Grand Slam.
“2023 presented its challenges with injuries and uncertainties. While training in Montreal in September, I was unsure if I could complete the season. Engaging Toni to accompany me to tournaments became challenging, and for a period, he wasn’t able to join me consistently.
The objective now is to have his presence more constant. My collaboration with Frederic Fontang remains strong, and I appreciate the cohesion within my team. While we often discuss specific objectives, we approach them differently as a team. Our focus is on daily improvements and the necessary steps to enhance our game, rather than setting rigid goals.
Despite the complications of 2023, my ambitions have remained consistent since my teenage years — to go the distance and secure a Grand Slam victory. I genuinely believe in my capability to achieve this,” Auger-Aliassime explained.
The 2023 season proved challenging for Felix, falling short of the goals he initially set. Despite winning three consecutive tournaments in the latter part of 2022, he began 2023 as the world No.6 but concluded the year in the 29th position in the ATP rankings. Injuries undoubtedly played a role, yet there’s a sense that mental strength may have been affected.
Felix found a glimmer of joy on the court while successfully defending his title in Basel. It is from this Swiss event that he intends to initiate a resurgence, aiming to reclaim a prominent position in the tennis landscape.
