Del Potro tempers hype

Originally published on: 26/02/10 13:00

In September, the 22-year-old became the first player to beat world number one Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal in the same major on his way to the US Open crown, earning him the country’s sportsperson of the year award ahead of Barcelona forward Lionel Messi and golfer Angel Cabrera, winner of the 2009 US Masters.

But the man himself believes any talk of title favouritism heading into next week’s Australian Open is premature, saying: “I feel the same. Nothing changed for my life after the US Open.”

He added: “I still have the same friends and parents and coaches, and that’s important.

“I’m in good shape. I hope to have a good tournament next week.

“I feel good with my tennis, I feel confident. I don’t know if I’m favourite.”

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By Tim Farthing

About the Author / Tim Farthing

Tim Farthing, Tennishead Editorial Director & Owner, has been a huge tennis fan his whole life. He's a tennis journalist and entrepreneur as well as playing tennis to a national standard. He also helps manage his local club and volunteers for his local tennis organisation. He's a specialist in content about the administration of professional tennis and tennis coaching for all levels.