"I wasn't financially independent and I wanted to free up my parents so they could enjoy their money," the confessions of Ugo Blanchet
Ranked 184th in the world at the start of this US Open, Ugo Blanchet made a strong impression, first by making it through the qualifiers, then by defeating two top 100 players, including the Miami champion, Mensik. In addition to his performances, the Frenchman also gave himself a financial boost (€203,000), as he usually competed in Challenger tournaments.
In an interview with our colleagues at L’Équipe, the 26-year-old player discussed his financial struggles and the crucial conversation he had with his family:
"I wasn't financially independent and I wanted to free up my parents so they could enjoy their money, go on vacation, travel, and build memories. I still loved playing, but I saw it wasn't enough. They asked me why. I gave them the reasons I just explained to you.
They replied: 'If that's all it is, we don't want you to stop, keep going.' My brother was there and he agreed. That was important because my parents were giving me a lot of money and I wanted there to be some equality with him. (...) That conversation took a weight off my shoulders."
For a spot in the round of 16, he will face the Czech player Machac (22nd).
US Open 
