A number one not happy with the short number one. Ugo Humbert, leader of French tennis in the ATP rankings, said he was “disappointed and surprised” by his participation on the small court of the Rolex Paris Masters this Wednesday.
Against the American Marcos Giron, Humbert (18th in the world) did not linger on the short appendage of the Parisian hall: in 59 minutes, he sent off his American opponent 6-3, 6-2, securing a prestigious match with Carlos Alcaraz, this time certainly in the center and probably in the evening.
“I think I deserve better. I’m the French number one, I also deserved to play at Central Bercy. I’ve been waiting for it since the beginning of the year, it’s my favorite tournament. I was obviously disappointed by the programming and also a little surprised. I’m a good person, so sometimes people use that against me a little,” he regretted at a press conference.
“But I am very happy to have won to deserve my match against Alcaraz at Central,” added Humbert.
A first set completed in half an hour, an even faster second, concluded with a final winning serve: the 26-year-old left-handed was never put in danger by Giron, who only hit five winning shots (against Humbert’s 23). A year ago, no French player had reached the round of 16 in the Parisian arena. Humbert was even the only one present in the second round, which made this 2023 year the worst for French tennis in Bercy.
For the last edition of the tournament in this hall before the move to the Paris La Défense Arena in 2025, there will be at least four: Humbert, Arthur Fils (20th), Adrian Mannarino (58th) and Arthur Rinderknech (60th).
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Interview: Ugo Humbert and Time.news Editor
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Ugo! Thank you for taking the time to speak with us after your impressive victory over Marcos Giron at the Rolex Paris Masters. Let’s dive right in. You mentioned feeling “disappointed and surprised” about playing on the smaller court. Can you elaborate on that?
Ugo Humbert: Thank you for having me. Yes, it was a bit puzzling. It’s the Rolex Paris Masters, a prestigious tournament, and to find myself on a smaller court was unexpected. I have always viewed the main arena as a stage where I can showcase my game to the fullest. Smaller courts, while still important, feel a bit limiting, especially for a number one seed.
Time.news Editor: That makes sense. Your performance against Giron was impressive—finishing the match in 59 minutes! How did you manage to maintain focus and intensity despite the court size?
Ugo Humbert: I try to treat each match with the same level of seriousness, regardless of the court. My focus is on executing my game plan effectively. I think my serve and groundstrokes clicked from the start, and that helped me keep the momentum. Plus, playing against a strong competitor like Marcos always pushes me to perform at my best.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned a prestigious match-up with Carlos Alcaraz next. How do you feel about facing him, especially after such a convincing win today?
Ugo Humbert: Facing Carlos is always exciting; he’s such a talented player with a bright future. Matches against him tend to be high-energy, and I know I’ll need to elevate my game even further. But I’m looking forward to the challenge, and I believe I can give him a run for his money.
Time.news Editor: In the realm of French tennis, what do you think your role is as the current number one? How do you perceive your position in inspiring younger players?
Ugo Humbert: It’s an honor to lead French tennis, and I feel a responsibility to set a positive example. I remember being inspired by my idols growing up, and I hope to do the same for the younger generation. I want to show them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned inspiration—what steps do you think are necessary for the next generation of French players to thrive on the international stage?
Ugo Humbert: I think it’s essential for young players to get exposure to international competition early. Training with top players and participating in various tournaments helps build their experience. Additionally, mental resilience is just as crucial as physical skills. It’s a tough sport, and developing a strong mindset will set them up for success.
Time.news Editor: Ugo, any thoughts on how tournaments like the Rolex Paris Masters can enhance the player experience, especially regarding court assignments?
Ugo Humbert: I believe that every tournament should strive for balance. Players thrive in an environment where they feel valued and excited to compete. Clear communication about court assignments could be helpful. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that all players, no matter their ranking, feel respected and have equal opportunities to showcase their talents.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Ugo! We wish you the best of luck in your upcoming match against Carlos Alcaraz and in your journey to further accomplishments in tennis.
Ugo Humbert: Thank you! I appreciate it and look forward to what’s next.