Nishesh Basavareddy defeated Antoine Bellier by 6-3 4-6 6-2 scoreline in the 2nd round of the ATP Cranbrook Tennis Classic in Detroit Michigan.

Nishesh was interviewed by Alex for Cracked Racquets. Here is an interview transcript below

Q: How did you feel about your win against Antoine Bellier?

A: I felt that I returned well for most of the match and got an early break, which was enough for the first set. However, it was frustrating when I felt like I was returning well but still didn’t get looks.

Q: What were your tactics to stay focused and keep pace with Bellier?

A: On return games, I tried to get the return back and play, and if I got a ball that I could hit, then go after it. On my service games, I tried to get an early lead in each game.

Q: How has your forehand improved over time?

A: My freshman year in college, I tore my left wrist and was playing half the season with the slice only. I think that definitely attributes to my growth in my forehand. I started being more aggressive with it and just continued when I got my backhand back.

Q: How has fitness been a focus for you as you’ve tried to accumulate pro results?

A: Fitness has always been the main focus for me. Being able to last longer, being stronger, and more powerful on the court is really important.

Q: How do you balance going after it in the weight room with staying healthy?

A: I focus on load management. I try to keep my practices shorter and make sure that I’m getting the reps I need but not pushing myself too much. Slowly, I can start increasing my load.

Q: What does your post-match routine look like?

A: I’ll do an abbreviated cooldown, eat lunch, and then come back for doubles.