Hubert Hurkacz, in a recent interview with Relevant Tennis, spoke again about the memorable match that saw him triumph in the quarterfinals against Roger Federer in the 2021 edition of Wimbledon and that ended the Swiss’s hopes of trying to win the 21st title of his career.
The Pole, in that match, managed to beat Federer in three sets, finishing in the third with an incredible 6-0. “I have always liked watching Roger Federer play. He is an incredible player and person. If he could borrow something from his game, it would be without a doubt the way he commits to his shots, his plan and the thoughts of him.
It was something really incredible”, said Hurkacz, who then spoke of his compatriot and world number one Iga Swiatek: “Iga is doing an incredible job, and also Magda (Linette ed.). I think in Poland there are a lot of tennis fans.
But there are still things to do to make tennis more accessible to everyone, and that will be great,” Hurkacz continued. “For example, it would be great to see more ATP and WTA 250-level tournaments in Poland. These events could also include activities for children so that they can meet the best players to be motivated and inspired.
There are still some things that can be done to improve the movement of Polish tennis and make it better for children and young athletes. Globally, I expect tennis to be a bit more accessible and grow in the next two years.”
The Pole outlines his goals for the new year: “2023 could be a good season for me. My goal is to keep improving and as a result I hope I can win some big tournaments. Besides tennis, my biggest dream is to participate in car racing one day.
And as for life off the track, I really want to be able to help others in the future,” concluded the current world number 10.
Nagal on facing King Roger
Playing Roger Federer was one of the most awe-inspiring as well as annoying experiences at the same time for former India No.
1 Sumit Nagal. “Federer you can call a magician. You don’t know what is coming,” Nagal said when reflecting on one of the biggest matches of his career so far. That is one of the most annoying parts to play against him that you have no clue,” the Indian tennis star continued.
“Is this guy going to hit a second serve and come to the net? Is he going for a short cross-court backhand? Or trying to make you (come) in. Yes, I don’t enjoy this as much. But in India, Roger is a very big guy and probably the most famous tennis player in India, and I was the only tennis player (from India) to ever win a set (against him). That’s why it became a little bit big,” he added.
