“I learned that we take sport for granted, the opportunity to play tennis and travel the world.”
Jennifer Brady scored an emotional win at the 2023 US Open – her first at a Grand Slam event in two years – defeating Kimberly Birrell 6-3, 7-6(4) in front of a sell-out home crowd.
The American was on the rise when she was sidelined with a serious knee injury in late 2021 and has had some solid wins since her return to the sport last month. However, winning here in New York would have been something very special given the big stage.
Reflecting on her journey in her post-game press conference, Brady said her time off the field taught her something that at times players took the sport for granted.
The American said tennis is a great opportunity for players to travel the world and do something they love and she wants to enjoy the little things more.
“I’ve learned, you know, I think we take this sport for granted,” said Jennifer Brady. “I think we don’t realize what a good opportunity we have to play tennis, travel the world, you know, and hit a little fluffy ball.” “You know, we can see things” , she continued. “To do things that others might never do, and I think looking ahead, I’ll try to have that perspective.”
“My first tournament back was difficult” – Jennifer Brady after securing her second-round spot at the US Open
Jennifer Brady after winning her first match at the 2023 US Open.
Jennifer Brady also recalled her “difficult” first tournament (Granby Canada) after injury during her US Open press conference.
The American said she was just trying to get used to things again, sometimes even forgetting to eat lunch before her games.
“Yes, I think my first tournament back was difficult,” said Jennifer Brady. “I played against a challenger in Granby, Canada. I just have to get used to things. Just like all the little routines. I’ve been trying to find my routine. I felt a little lost. I didn’t really know what to do. “I played a match at 9 p.m.,” she continued. “I haven’t eaten since about 1:30 or 2:00 p.m. Walking out of there I was like, ‘Oh shit, I haven’t eaten, I’m a little lightheaded. I do not do that.’ really have energy.
However, Brady was quick to add that getting some match practice before the US Open helped her, before joking that there was no way she would miss a meal before a game in New York.
“It’s just such little things,” said the American. “Here at the US Open, it’s impossible not to eat before the game. We have so much food and so many options to choose from.”
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