There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the future of American men's tennis, as the USA has failed to produce a serious contender in over a decade. Despite John Isner's valiant attempt to carry the mantle during that period, he has been unsuccessful in bringing home a Grand Slam title.
However, the 2021 season has given some a reason to hope, with the likes of
Sebastian Korda and Jenson Brooksby making noise on the ATP circuit. Former World No.2
Tommy Haas gave his thoughts on the pair, stating that Brooksby seemed very focused and eager to improve his game.
"You see how focused he is out there," Haas said after Brooksby's first round US Open loss to Novak Djokovic. "You see also that he’s not the most talented player in the world, but he does everything that he can to try to be the best player that he can be and constantly improve. You can kind of sense that. And the way he fights in the way he represents himself out there.
"It’s something special and you don’t see that in all the players, all the time, no matter where you’re from."
The German also spoke on Korda, saying that the young American's family history in sports provided him with the discipline required to succeed.
"Sebastian Korda is another one of those situations. He grew up in Bradenton, Florida, I’ve known him since he was born. I played his dad a couple times on tour back in the day," added Hass. "It’s that mentality, right? You come from a family that has done it as well.
They’re so disciplined and structured. It’s like second nature to them. A lot of people aren’t used to that kind of a lifestyle."