Nikolay Davydenko opens up: "I never imagined becoming world No. 3" — the powerful testimony of the former Russian player
World No. 3 at his highest ranking, Nikolay Davydenko managed to make a name for himself in the 2000s by winning 21 ATP titles, including the Masters in 2009 as well as three Masters 1000 events (Paris-Bercy 2006, Miami 2008, and Shanghai 2009).
The Russian spoke out this week for the Russian Tennis Federation (RTF), discussing the difficulties he faced before his breakthrough on the professional circuit.
"If you want something, you have to persevere"
"I had moved to Germany, I wasn't really getting results and I wasn't in top physical shape. Did I dream of winning big matches back then? Of course, like all kids.
Did I imagine becoming world No. 3 or winning 21 ATP titles? Not really, it was a complicated period. My journey proves that life is not a long, calm river.
If you want something, you have to persevere; results eventually come sooner or later. I advise young players not to rest on their laurels. Keep fighting, use every opportunity to improve your game in training or in tournaments. Seize all opportunities to join the tennis elite."
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