Interview Brouwer: ‘Underestimated myself for a while’

The Dutch men have been doing extremely well at Libéma Open in recent years. After triumphant tours by Tim van Rijthoven and Tallon Griekspoor, Gijs Brouwer (with Griekspoor again) is throwing high points this week. His sights are now set on the finals weekend.

You beat former champion Adrian Mannarino in two quick sets in the previous round. That must be a special win for you?
‘Considering the level I reached against someone with such a ranking, this was perhaps my best win ever. On court you don’t notice it so much, but afterwards I felt I was in control the whole time. Last year at Wimbledon against Alexander Zverev I also did extremely well, although I lost then. That match helps me remember what I can do on this surface.’

What is the first feeling that comes in every year when you take your first steps on grass?
‘Nice and familiar! You have to adjust a bit in terms of movement and shorten your back swing a bit, but that suits me. I started on artificial grass at tennis club De Drieban in Venhuizen and trained a lot on carpet. Even then you have to sit low and get to the ball quickly.’

It remains a fun fact that you came to earth in Houston, Texas. Do you have a connection with your hometown?
‘Not really, but the ATP tournament held there I always enjoy participating in. By now, most fans there know surprisingly well who I am. Especially after the past two editions, when I first made it to the quarterfinals and even the last four a year later.’

If you could step into a time machine, what era would you travel to?
‘The United States in the 1950s, to follow the American Dream.’

What is the biggest misconception fans have about life as a pro?
‘That you get to go to different countries and play the tourist. In reality, you mostly see the hotel and the tennis court, unless you lose early and suddenly have a few days off until the next tournament.’

What are you bound to do when your tennis career is over?
‘Have children. I want that one hundred per cent. Right now, it’s not possible yet and I don’t have to. I honestly shouldn’t think about having to travel with kids on the tour.’

What would you have liked to have known ten years ago?
‘What my highest level is going to be. How well I can play. If I felt what I feel now and knew what I know now, I think I would have been in the top200 a bit earlier. I think I underestimated myself for a while.’

Did you have an obsession with anything as a child?
‘Machines that move you forward quickly. Boats, race cars, dirt bikes. I’m a bit of a speed demon, though.’

If you could have a cosy barbecue here and were allowed to invite three special guests from past or present, who would definitely be there?
‘Roger Federer, Brad Pitt and my late grandfather. Those would be fun conversations. If he would be near a grass court, I would like to experience Federer’s backhand slice.’