Tennis Elbow 2013 Media

Exclusive Interview with Bash

25.02.2021


Squeaky: Congratulations on reaching the final! What are your feelings after this tough battle?

Bash: I was really happy! It was intense from the beginning until the end. I didn't started well but then I played a great tennis. On the second half of the match I decided to serve with more power and it was more effective. I struggled to return great and my opponent has an incredible defense. It was really hard to dictate the rallies but in the end I won and I'm proud of my performance. I was a little bit to predictable and my opponent analyzed quickly my game so it was difficult for me mentally to stay focus and on my game.

Squeaky: Was this match so far the toughest at Australian open for you?

Bash: Yeah definitely!

Squeaky: In last matches you were serving really good, most of the time above 70 percent and you served many aces, also you served so far the fastest recorded serve 226 km/h at this tournament, opponents really find it hard to break your serve especially when you have great percentage. Would you consider your serve your biggest weapon?

Bash: I don't know if it's my biggest but I really try to mix a lot and hit big serve to get an advantage and it seems to work for the moment.

Squeaky: This is your fourth consecutive final, but this time more important than ever, grandslam final, is your preparation different at grand slam tournament than for example at 250 like last week?

Bash: Honestly I don't think there is a huge difference. I'm on holiday right now so I might have a better mental preparation but that's all.

Squeaky: Do you feel pressure on yourself going onto this match? It’s your first ever grand slam final, chance to rewrite the history, against opponent you already played 2 times, and on courts where you so far lost just a set.

Bash: I feel stressed actually. Lots of pressure. And I really need to win for my confidence. I'm playing great since the beginning but my opponent has done an incredible run so it will be difficult.

Squeaky: Only one match left at this tournament, so far looking at the draw did the tournament go as expected or were there some big surprises you think?

Bash: All my opponent were really good actually. No easy match for me. I'm surprised to have reached the final to be honest. I feel I've been lucky but now that I have a big opportunity I'll do my best!

Squeaky: Good luck!

Bash: Thanks, you too!