Estoril Open 2003 News and Events

Fernando Gonzalez
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Q: Last year, your biggest achievements were on hard-court surfaces. How do you feel on clay courts? - Emiliano Abarca

FG: I learn to play tennis on clay courts so normally I feel a little bit better on clay but my game works well on hard courts, but it just depends on where I play, so I like both.

Q: What are your goals for the 2003 season? - William.

FG: I want to finish in the Top 10, last year was a great year so why not? I will try and we'll see what happens.

Q: What sort of physical training do you do off the court before and during tournaments? - Fabio

FG: I have my fitness trainer and he knows what work to do, so I just do the things that he tells me to do.

Q: I read your quote after the Acasuso match that said you did not attack and go for winners right away. Will you adopt this style a little more like Agassi did in his development? - Anon

FG: I have my own style, I think I need to win more matches, but I will my style forever.

Q: Watching you play, it looks like you use an extra energy to hit the ball. Do you feel the way you play requires you to put in extra effort compared to other pro's to compete at your highest level? - Brian.

FG: Maybe I have to work a little bit harder than he rest because I hit with more power than the other guys and you can get tired sooner than the other guys. Maybe I used to but I like the way that I play and I really enjoy playing tennis like this.

Q: How do you hit so hard and still get the ball in? I can't seem to do this consistently...any tips? - Roger Clemens.

FG: It depends where you are on the court, you have to put the ball not too far from the net. Sometimes you have to use a lot of acceleration at the end of the shot.

Q: What is your best advice in how to became a top tennis player like you are and the road to take as an 11-year-old to reach your level of tennis? - Andre

FG: When you are 11 you just have to o and play and have fun and play as long as you want. After it's different. If you are good, you have to practice a lot, but not when you are too young.

Q: What music do you enjoy listening to and what soccer club in Chile do you follow? - Marcelo, Australia.

FG: I listen to a little music I like my national groups and I like Spanish rock. I like all kinds of music. As for soccer, I like Colo Colo in Chile - they are the best team.