“Great words to hear from Andy Murray; That means a lot” – Jenson Brooksby

20-year-old American Jenson Brooksby has said that Andy Murray’s complimentary tweet means a lot to him, especially since the Brit has been among the best players in the sport.

Brooksby has made people sit up and take notice of his game in Washington this week where he has stormed into the semi-finals as a wildcard entrant.

Impressed by his style of play, Murray posted a tweet on Friday saying Brooksby is ” the sort of player I love to watch. Lots of variety, high tennis IQ, great in defense.”

When asked about the same in his post-match press conference following his quarter-final victory, Brooksby said he found Murray’s description of his game and comparisons to German Florian Mayer accurate.

“I think that’s very accurate. Obviously that’s great words to hear from Andy. I mean, he’s been one of the best in the sport and a great guy to look up to. That means a lot. That’s great words coming from him,” Brooksby responded. “I think he is right with that, because he plays a similar style, as well. It’s funny, I always laugh at that, it is Florian Mayer that had the two-handed slice and volley on the guys’ side. Yeah, that’s funny.”

Brooksby said his game on court comes from a combination of pre-match tactical planning as well as instinct. “I think it’s both. Honestly, I think I do both well. My coach, definitely how we train, how we train in general and how we go into each match is definitely like a tactical IQ thing. Then also I feel confident in my decisions midpoint as well come match time often. I think I succeed at both those factors.”

“Definitely the toughest part is to stay at the top”: Jenson Brooksby

When asked who his favourite player to watch was, Brooksby did not name anyone specific but added that he was most impressed by the consistency that the top players bring to the court on a regular basis.

“I don’t really watch too much, honestly. But if it is, it’s just the consistency of the top guys. I mean, when I was younger, especially, you know, when I was younger, even somewhat recently, it would be just the consistency they bring, definitely challenging, and they have done a great job. That’s definitely the toughest part to stay at the top. “

Brooksby will take on 19-year-old Jannik Sinner in the Citi Open semi-finals on Saturday.