April 16, 2021

Five Point Friday

Here’s your roundup of the five most interesting things I’m enjoying or thinking about this week.

1.) Evans Eliminates Djokovic

Yesterday, world #33 Dan Evans earned the biggest win of his career in Monte Carlo while also ending Novak Djokovic’s undefeated start to 2021. For me, it was a reminder of the intense pressure top players regularly face. We’re so used to seeds cruising through the first few rounds seemingly untouched. However, particularly in early rounds, quality players like Evans are looking to log career-best upsets without much to lose. Although somewhat obvious, these moments help me appreciate the consistency of the world’s best.

2.) 15-Year Olds 1st WTA Win

Playing at the MUSC Health Women’s Open in Charleston, SC, 15-year old Linda Fruhvirtova claimed her first WTA win over world #59 Aliźe Cornet, who retired at 4-4 in the third set. Fruhvirtova is one of six players aged 20 or younger who advanced to the second round of the tournament. Yesterday, she faced one of those players, 19-year old Emma Navarro. At the time of writing, they hadn’t played their match. Click here to see if the 15-year old claimed her 2nd win.

3.) An Awkward Interview

After his first-round victory at the Monte Carlo Masters, Hubert Hurkacz was met with an awkward silence during his post-match media interview. Reporters didn’t ask a single question as the moderator attempted to encourage conversation.

It’s been a not too difficult press conference for Hubert Hurkacz on yesterday

(🎥 @tennistv) pic.twitter.com/9w7O6NAlYG

— We Are Tennis (@WeAreTennis) April 14, 2021

4.) Świątek Chats with Shiffrin

Iga Świątek, last year’s Rolland Garros champion and two-time Olympic gold medallist skier Mikaela Shiffrin sat down for a live Instagram chat where they discussed handling pressure and the importance of psychology in performance. Iga is 19-years-old, and a while back had shared that she looks up to 26-year-old Shiffrin, so it was a fun opportunity for them to connect and gain some insight from each other while we listen in.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mikaela Shiffrin ⛷💨 (@mikaelashiffrin)

5.) Medvedev Tests Positive

Despite all the hard work from tournaments and diligence from players to stay safe, it’s not surprising to see a player test positive for COVID-19 periodically as they travel around the world. This week, world #2, Daniil Medvedev, tested positive and was subsequently withdrawn from the Monte Carlo Masters.

Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters – ATP Statement pic.twitter.com/S3N5NrdZMq

— ATP Media Info (@ATPMediaInfo) April 13, 2021

If you have a moment, I’d love to hear your feedback. Which topic is your favorite? What would you like to see more or less of each week?

Share your thoughts in the comments below and have a great weekend.