Jenson Brooksby, once a rising star in American tennis, now shares a deeply personal aspect of his life - his battle with autism spectrum disorder. As he prepares to make a comeback on the tennis stage, including at the highly anticipated Australian Open, he opens up about the challenges and strengths he has faced.

Uncovering Jenson Brooksby's Hidden Struggle and Resilience

Early Years and Therapy

As a child, Jenson spent an astonishing 40 hours a week with therapists. This intense focus was crucial as he embarked on the long journey of learning to talk and improving his communication and social skills. It was a foundation that would shape his future not only on the tennis court but also in his personal life.During those early years, every session with the therapists was a step towards unlocking his potential. It was a slow but steady process that laid the groundwork for his development. His determination and the efforts of his therapists combined to bring about significant changes.

Autism as a Strength on Court

Jenson views his autism as a significant strength, especially in pressure moments during tennis matches. It allows him to hyper-focus on specific details for extended periods, giving him an edge in crucial situations. This unique perspective has become a part of his game and has helped him navigate the intense world of professional tennis.However, it's not all smooth sailing. He also faces challenges, such as outbursts when he is losing or frustrated with a particular shot. His athletic trainer, Paul Kinney, is vigilant in monitoring these signs and ensuring that he can manage his emotions effectively.

Dealing with Injuries and Ban

In 2023, Jenson faced a major setback when he was given an 18-month suspension by the International Tennis Integrity Agency. It wasn't due to a positive drug test but rather missed drug tests within a 12-month period. The circumstances surrounding the missed tests were complex, with his side arguing that miscommunication was to blame.After appealing, he and the ITIA agreed to a reduced punishment, allowing him to return in March 2024 instead of January 2025. This period of suspension was a difficult time for him mentally, as he had to deal with multiple surgeries on his wrists and the uncertainty of his future.

Preparing for the Comeback

Now, Jenson is gearing up for his comeback on the lower-level Challenger Tour in Canberra, Australia, next month, followed by the Australian Open. He has been working hard with his new team, including coaches Eric Nunez and Rhyne Williams and his athletic trainer Paul Kinney, to improve his game and his physical condition.His best result at a major tournament was reaching the fourth round at the 2021 US Open, where he lost to Novak Djokovic in four sets. This experience has given him the motivation to return stronger and prove himself once again on the global stage.Jenson's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination. He is ready to share his story and inspire others with his story of overcoming adversity.