Hi everyone,
It’s been great to spend some time at home after a long year travelling on the tour, and now the pre-season training is underway. I’m working really hard!
Looking back, I did not have a good year unfortunately, but there were some great moments. For sure in Malaysia, the tournament in Kuala Lumpur was the highlight this year. I had a good run there to reach the final. Another highlight was Wimbledon, where I had a good run, and the match with World No. 1 Djokovic in the third round. I would say that was my most memorable match of the year, playing at Wimbledon against Djokovic. You all know that I like to play on grass in one of my favourite tournaments of the season, which is Wimbledon. I can’t wait to go back next year!
On reflection, my serve was, I can say, very bad during the year. And although I have worked on fitness, after Rotterdam when I got ill and was in bed for 10 days, I think we made a big mistake with my ex-coach Guillaume when we did not take a break and rest and work on coming back. We entered many tournaments instead and it was a mistake that cost me half the season.
Starting work with Miles in July was a positive thing. He brought positivity and aggression to my game and made me realise a big part of the game I was playing, and to see how I needed to play my game, which I did the last three months. That gives me a lot of hope and optimism for the upcoming season.
During the off-season I think I will work on lots of areas. Miles and my trainer have put together the programme that I need to do. For sure I will work on strength training, my endurance and all fitness areas. With Miles I’ll be on the court working on my game, playing aggressive tennis, plus working on some details like the serve, volley, forehand and all techniques.
I want you all to know I am definitely committed to working hard on my tennis and want to make it enjoyable for the fans to enjoy the New Year, and the season of tennis that is coming up. I really appreciate the support you guys offer me throughout the year and can’t wait to see you all on tour next season.
I wish everyone a peaceful and festive holiday and will see you all in the New Year.
All my best,
Marcos