There are names that appear on the ATP circuit with the vigor and strength of those destined for stardom. Sensational youngsters – and sensations – who assault the elite positions from the first minute, sneaking into the conversation about the next generational talents in the world of tennis. Others go through a much slower cooking period, testing themselves in different scenarios and adding pieces to their game much more gradually. 2022 of Brandon Nakashima shows that the American is part of that second definition: he has improved in practically every aspect of his tennis, from adding several kilometers of speed to his serve to being much more incisive with his forehand. After two lost finals, the talent of San Diego He only had to win a title for the first time to vindicate himself, and in the tournament in his hometown, precisely in the North American city, Brandon managed to redeem himself. Nakashima spoke to the ATP after becoming champion and took the opportunity to take an introspective look at his tennis and other aspects of his personal life.
Sensations after winning his first ATP title… and after doing it, moreover, at home
“I feel great, it’s a very special feeling. After playing two finals last year and losing them, I never thought that this moment would come again, and that it comes at home, in the city of San Diego… to be able to conquer this title is really special. All this week I have played at a very high level, I am very proud of myself and all the hard work. Winning an ATP tournament in the place where I grew up, where I learned to play tennis, all that is an indescribable feeling. I have to thank my whole family, they have done an amazing job educating me. I also really thank all my coaches for their hard work from junior days to now. There are so many people here in San Diego who have helped me Along the way, I couldn’t be more grateful.
How would Brandon Nakashima describe himself?
“As a player, on the court, I would say that I am a calm, serene guy, I always try to be very focused. Also, I am very solid from the back of the court, I try not to concede too many free points. It is clear that both my serve and my rest have improved a lot throughout the year, I’m very happy with how my game has evolved. Off the court I would describe myself as a very laid-back guy, very carefree. I like to have fun with my family and friends during my free time.” .
The help of going through university
“Life in college and the atmosphere there has helped me reach this moment, without a doubt, it has prepared me for these types of moments on the professional circuit. All the guys who were part of the varsity team and all my coaches, always I will be grateful. I get along very well with them, we keep in touch. Also, I think that life at the university helped me with the trips within the circuit”.
His favorite aspect of the circuit
“I think I would stick with meeting new people from all over the world, people from different countries and different cultures. It’s not something I experienced growing up, so I love being able to do it now. Playing tennis and traveling around the world… it’s something special. I’m always excited every time I travel to new places, to new cities, and I know that I have a lot in the future to continue discovering.”
