I struggled with the heat," Mannarino reflects on his victory against O’Connell

Adrian Mannarino continues his strong form on grass this season. The Frenchman cleared three qualifying rounds and defeated Christopher O’Connell in three sets on Monday in the first round.

After the match, he spoke to *L’Équipe* about his current condition: "I struggled with the heat. The toughest part was staying clear-headed when your head is burning and everything inside is overheating.

I went through qualifying, but it wasn’t a blow to my pride—I’m competing every week, even if the results aren’t always great. It’s been tougher over the past year.

Grass season comes right after clay, a part of the season that at least allows me to work on my fitness. I arrive on grass without any issues!

I’m one of the few players who only competes seven or eight months a year if you count the two months on clay.

It’s more satisfying knowing that the guy who sees my name before facing me is going to dread it, whereas he’d be happy to play me on clay.