“You seemed much less stressed than your opponent on the court. Do you think this is what made the difference?
Yes, I saw from the start that Clara (Burel) was stressed. It was obvious. For my part, I tried to stay focused, because when we see our opponent like that, we tend to stress too. Fortunately, the score shifted a little in my favor. The little bit of stress, I took it when I missed 4-1 balls in the second set, because I knew that I couldn’t let it come back. But I managed to attack him in return, I think that’s what made the difference. Emotionally, it was complicated to manage. Playing a French girl is not easy.
When you lost your serve at the end of the match, you shouted to your coach: ”I’m scared!”. What was going through your head at that time?
My hand was starting to shake! I knew I had to stay very aggressive so as not to let her play, and I was less and less able to do that. Luckily, I calmed down in my chair at 5-4. Sometimes I need to get my emotions out. If they stay inside me, it’s not good.
“Since arriving in Melbourne, I’ve tried not to worry and not expect much”
Are you surprised by your journey here?
Yes, obviously, because I didn’t expect to do a second week. But I know that when I am confident, I can be dangerous. That’s why since arriving in Melbourne, I’ve tried not to worry and not expect much. So far, it’s working. I have fewer expectations and more confidence in myself.
After the match point, you remained very sober…
I didn’t want to scream or throw my racket in the air, because I wanted to be respectful to Clara. Afterwards, in the last game, I was so stressed, I went into robot mode so much, that I wanted to go to the net as quickly as possible!
In the round of 16, you will face the Chinese Zheng Qinwen. Do you know her?
Yes, I have already played it twice. She beat me every time, but it was on clay. She plays very well and is very aggressive, with a great serve. I’m not worrying, I’m just going to try to be aggressive too. Anyway, I’m not going to do chops! »
