Finally fit again, Alex de Minaur has arrived at the French Open confident he can shoulder the load as Australia’s top-ranked male.
A groin injury has derailed the 20-year-old’s meteoric rise but he says he’s back to his best and embracing his status ahead of Monday’s court 13 opener against American left-hander Bradley Klahn.
Two years ago the Spain-based talent was ranked 240th in the world but, having quickly risen to no.24, finds himself in Paris seeded 21st.
“It’s definitely a new sensation, new feeling for me, especially at the French Open,” he said of his status.
“I’m really looking forward to it, just to go out there, be positive and hopefully play some good consistent tennis.”
The Sydney International champion has lost his last five matches and not tasted success on clay so far this season as he’s grappled with his first serious health setback.
“I can’t be too hard on myself, it’s not easy, just part of the process,” he said.
“I’m very happy with where I’m at now, back to the level I was before the injury.”
It will be de Minaur’s first meeting with Klahn, a former college star with Stanford University and current world No.89.
“Every other bloke out there is out there to beat you, so every match is going to be difficult but I’ll just focus on my side of the court,” de Minaur said.
“It was a struggle to get back out there, because I’m not used to being injured.
“So playing positive tennis is really important; these days 80-90 per cent of the game is mental, so that’s the most important thing for me.”