Müller on prize money: "That's why I play tennis. This sport is also my job".

Alexandre Müller spoke to L'Équipe about his week in Rio. He explained why he had chosen to go to South America, and how satisfied he was.

"I asked the players who had already made the trip. They all told me that conditions were difficult and very different from Europe.

I could have taken the easy option and played in Dubai, where I live. I could have played practically at home and joined my girlfriend on our sofa in the evening.

But I chose to come here, to Rio, to experience something different. And I'm glad I did, because playing in the final of an ATP 500 is something I've never done before...

My main aim was to play in the main draw without going through the qualifying rounds.

And that's more accessible here. But I also wanted to change, explore new horizons and put myself in danger.

As for the prize money, I make no secret of the fact that that's why I play tennis. The sport is also my job.

A career is short, and mine may be even shorter because of my health problems. You have to optimize everything.

It's important. So it was a good week for me. In terms of ranking too. I'll be able to move up and hope to be seeded for the French Open. In short, I'm having a good time this year.

Müller will play this week in Acapulco, where he will face Frances Tiafoe in the first round.