19-year-old French prodigy Arthur Fils is currently competing in the Next Gen ATP Finals and has made it to the final, edging closer to claiming the coveted trophy. Fils, renowned for his tireless effort, dedication, and a touch of dramatic flair, has recently drawn attention by performing a celebration that was inspired by football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
The ‘Siu’ celebration went viral on social media and had the world take notice of a budding star in the making. Even the great Rafael Nadal invited Arthur and had the Frenchman hyped up about the prospect of meeting the legend.
Arthur Fils opens up about Rafael Nadal invitation
Arthur Fils will close out his season at the Next Gen ATP Finals after his final match against Hamad Medjedovic on Saturday. With the off-season set to commence, Arthur received an invitation to spar with a legend out of the blue and the chuffed-to-bits world no. 36 accepted it immediately.
Rafael Nadal, who is training hard to make a comeback to tennis early next year, called upon Arthur to train with him in Kuwait on December 8. Arthur was ecstatic at the opportunity and instantly began preparing for his flight to the Middle Eastern nation.
“He very kindly invited me. I’m going to give it my all. I’m going to try not to get too carried away on his forehands (smiles). I’m going to get the most out of it,” Arthur said.
Arthur Fils will relish the chance to train hard with a resurgent Nadal and will look to be a formidable opponent to the Spaniard, who is on his comeback trail from injury.
Arthur opened up about an idol in tennis and named a legend who had a close connection with Nadal.
Fils chose Roger Federer as his idol
Arthur Fils chose Roger Federer as his idol in tennis but stressed how, as he developed his game on the professional circuit, he came to see the strengths of Rafael Nadal.
“My idol was Roger, but the more we grow up, the more we appreciate watching Rafa play, his fighting spirit, his game,” Arthur said.
In May, Arthur discussed what part of Federer’s play inspired him the most when he was quizzed about whether he took inspiration from fellow youngsters on the tennis circuit.
“I don’t take inspiration from them( Alcaraz & Sinner) because they are just one year older than me. Federer was my inspiration when he was playing. Now, of course, Nadal and Djokovic,” Arthur said.
“Yeah, his style and his calm on the court was I think something unbelievable. Maybe his forehand, too. He got so good forehand,” he added when asked what about Federer.
Arthur Fils will look for his maiden Next Gen ATP Finals crown on Saturday night, which should see him earn a hefty paycheck along with important ATP points that should help him rise up the ranking table and earn a career-high number.
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