How Autism Fuels Jenson Brooksby's Tennis Success: A Story of Resilience and Release

Jenson Brooksby, a rising star in the tennis world, has recently opened up about his autism diagnosis, revealing how it has influenced his journey both on and off the court. Diagnosed on the severe end of the autism spectrum as a child, Brooksby was non-verbal until the age of four. His parents' unwavering support and intensive therapy helped him find his voice and his passion for sports.

The Role of Sports in Brooksby's Life

For Brooksby, sports became a crucial outlet. "Sport was a big release for me," he shared. "If I sit for a long time, I can have a lot of energy bottled up, and so being a very active kid really let it out." Tennis, along with basketball, swimming, and athletics, became a significant part of his life from a young age, providing him with a sense of purpose and focus.

Overcoming Challenges

Brooksby's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. After a promising start to his career, including a notable performance at the 2021 US Open, he faced a series of setbacks, including shoulder injuries, wrist surgeries, and a ban for missing anti-doping tests. However, his autism diagnosis played a pivotal role in reducing his ban from 18 to 13 months, as the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) considered his condition in their decision.

Autism as an Advantage

Brooksby believes his autism has given him a unique edge on the court. "I'm able to keep my focus pretty well in higher pressure moments and not get distracted by external things like the crowd, the wind, if people are standing up," he explained. His ability to hyper-focus and maintain composure under pressure has been instrumental in his success.

Inspiring Future Generations

By sharing his story, Brooksby hopes to inspire and support others with autism, especially those aspiring to become professional athletes. "I really hope that future players, whether they are vocal about it or not, they at least know it's OK for them to struggle with it and hopefully be able to explain why," he said.

Looking Ahead

After a two-year hiatus, Brooksby made a triumphant return to the tour at Indian Wells, where he secured his first tour-level wins. His resilience and determination continue to inspire both fans and fellow players. As he looks to the future, Brooksby remains focused on his goals, using his past experiences as a source of motivation and strength.

Brooksby's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the unique strengths that neurodiversity can bring to the world of sports.