
The first step of Alex De Miñaur in this 2025 Australian Open was completed on Tuesday against Botic Van de Zandschulp. A good victory to pave the way and remind everyone why he has long been the best tennis player in the country. A blessing that, however, also carries pressure and expectations, although we are dealing with a man who never loses sight of reality, being very aware of his mission. In his press conference, the Sydney player explained what tools he uses to deal with all the things people expect from him on a daily basis.
Great victory over Van de Zandschulp
“Nights like this are the ones you dream of being in, taking part in the prime time of Rod Laver Arena, it's very special what happens out there. It's incredible to see how all the people in the stadium support you, making you turn up even more. It's a great feeling to go out there, produce a high level of tennis, and also get the victory. However, I admit that the second set was a little stressful”.
Physically recovered
“My body is exactly where I want it to be, that's why I worked countless hours in these past months, to get back to feeling good, to be comfortable on the court, sliding from side to side without really thinking about my hip. This is very positive, something incredible, so now it's time to rest and start thinking about the next match. Today's match was very tough, I'm happy with the level”.
A match that got more complicated
“It was an ideal start, I came out of the blocks exactly as I wanted, with a lot of intensity and energy, plus tactically playing the right way, being solid and aggressive. The serving was on fire, my way of pressuring helped a lot, although as the match progressed and conditions became a bit slower and heavier, it made the match more challenging, the momentum changed. Still, I'm happy to have found a way to resist and move on to the next test”.
A favorite of the crowd
“There's always pressure, but no one will pressure you more than yourself. There will always be external noise, it will always be in the background, but I face each day with the same mentality, focusing on bringing out my best version. When it comes to playing these kinds of matches or competing in Australia, my only focus is to give myself the best chance on the court, do everything I can. We know how tennis is, you can have some good and bad days, but I know that if I'm on, I'll go all the way. I also know that the crowd will support me from the first to the last point, so it all depends on the perspective you choose to see the pressure”.
Tristan Boyer in the second round
“Obviously, I know he's coming off a horrible situation in California, so all my condolences to those affected in that area. The truth is, you never want to see something like that, anywhere. I'm sure he's going through a lot of things, but today's victory will have given him a bit of energy, he must have had a great feeling in this tough moment for him. I'm looking forward to the match, he will arrive with a lot of confidence after passing through the qualifying rounds and having already played four matches. I expect a great battle, looking forward to it”.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Así gestiona De Minaur la presión de ser el mejor australiano