Marray signs with ASICS
Originally published on: 02/05/13 00:00
The Brit overcame overwhelming odds and was catapulted up the ATP doubles rankings last season following his victory in the men’s doubles with Frederik Nielsen at last year’s Championships. For 2013, Jonny has forged a new partnership with fellow Brit Colin Fleming.
We asked Jonny his thoughts about defending his Wimbledon title, changing doubles partners and his dream dinner guests.
What would you say is your greatest strength? And weakness?
My volleys have always been the strongest part of my game. In terms of weaknesses I always try to keep them a secret!
You’ve played with a number of different partners so far this season. Is it good to keep mixing it up or do you prefer consistency?
Playing with different partners this year has been more forced due to injuries than through choice. I prefer to have a regular partner to build momentum and understanding as a team.
Do you enjoy playing with a British partner? If you can't convince Nielsen to play at Wimbledon, would you like to defend your title with a fellow Brit?
It’s always nice to play with a fellow Brit as we all get on well and it’s nice to try and have success with your friends. I have recently started playing with Colin Fleming so hopefully we can have a good run on the clay leading up to the summer grass court season.
What do you look for in a doubles partner?
Someone that I feel comfortable playing with in terms of personality and also that has a game that complements mine.
If you could play with anybody – current or retired – who would it be and why?
Roger Federer as it would be an honour to play with arguably the greatest player of all time.
How has winning Wimbledon changed things for you – both on and off the court?
Watching Wimbledon on the telly was the reason I started playing tennis, so to win the men’s doubles title there with Freddie was a dream come true. It has given me the opportunity to play in all the biggest tournaments throughout the year and given me a lot of confidence and belief in my own game.
Has your success last season made you reset your career goals?
A year ago I would have found it hard to believe that within the next 12 months I would be a Wimbledon champion, played at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals at the O2 Arena and had represented Great Britain in the Davis Cup.
I think it is very important to set goals for yourself and have a plan about how to go about achieving them. I've had many great experiences over the last year but there are a lot of other things I would like to accomplish in my career and I'm really looking forward to these new challenges.
Where is your favourite city?
Sheffield!
Who would be your three ideal dinner guests – dead or alive?
Muhammed Ali, Larry David, and Bill Shankley
If you weren’t a tennis player, what would you be and why?
I always wanted to be a footballer but unfortunately I think that ship has sailed!
We’ll be putting ASICS’ knowledge to the test in our next issue. If you have any questions for the ASICS experts, from technology to technique, email us at [email protected].
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