Australian young gun Destanee Aiava admits she’s been struggling to find motivation amid the isolation of the women’s professional circuit.
The 18-year-old was knocked out of the Australian Open on Tuesday by 17th-seeded American Madison Keys 6-2 6-2 in one hour and 11 minutes.
Aiava lost at the same stage at Melbourne Park last year to world No.1 Simona Halep 7-6 (7-5) 6-1.
Earmarked as Australian women’s tennis’ next big thing, the teen admits she’s battling loneliness on tour.
“Life our tour is pretty shit, especially travelling but that’s what all tennis players have to deal with so that’s what I’m learning every day,” Aiava said.
“Especially when I’m going overseas, it’s quite lonely so you have to keep yourself occupied. It was hard last year with school as well.”
Loneliness and family issues led her to take some time off in 2018.
“It was just getting too much and I had family stuff going on,” she said.
The world No.191 credits online shopping and watching YouTube videos with helping her remain positive and hopes to launch her own YouTube channel this year.
“I’ve been enjoying (tennis) lately, finding the motivation I guess – probably just looking to get the best out of yourself helps – I struggled with that last year,” Aiava said.
“Big things are coming as long as I keep working hard and not getting too down on myself, especially about today.
“It’s another main draw match so that’s a plus.”