R1: Qualifier Joachim overcomes the Swiss Rocket

Joachim : “I was pretty prepared, mentally, for that. I have watched Nici on tour for pretty much my entire life, so I got the gist of how he was going to play. I think in Sweden he got a bit injured, so I think I got a bit lucky today.

“I feel pretty happy with how I played. I didn’t give him anything, and that’s what I wanted to do.

“I’ve been here a week now. I’m used to the weather and the courts. Qualifying was tough, but it was pretty smooth sailing for me in terms of how many minutes I had to spend on court.

“I’m super excited for the season ahead. This is my third month fully on tour; the first two tournaments weren’t great, and I didn’t play how I wanted to. Then in Canada, I had a bit of a lucky break, winning the NASH Cup, and then coming here as well.

“I’m enjoying it so far. The travel is tough on the body, because I’m based in the US, so I would have to fly 14 hours back and forth if I’m to play anything in the Middle East. I think I have a long season ahead, so I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”