Daniel Phillips has advanced to the Rafa Nadal Tour Under 14 Tennis Tournament Main Draw Semi-Finals in Barcelona.
In his Fourth Round Main Draw match Phillips would once again come good as he defeated #6 seed Iker Sevilla Perez, but he needed to come from a set down to do so.
Phillips went down in the First Set 6-1, but he would bounce back to win the Second Set 6-3, Phillips would close out the match winning the Third and Final Set 6-3.
Phillips’ coach Sam Maybury asked the youngster a few questions in the lead up to the Semi-Final.
Coach Sam’s Question - How was your performance today?
Daniel’s Answer - I had a slow start today because of my body getting tired faster from the intense matches. I was making easy mistakes. Then I settled down and found my comfort zone and stayed in the flow.
Coach Sam’s Question - What is the biggest difference in your game?
Daniel’s Answer - The biggest difference is in me. I now feel like I am on the same level as all these guys. My confidence has risen. All my strokes are the same. My mental game has improved because of how I am able to recognize my opponent’s weakness and adjust my game to correct my mistakes.
Coach Sam’s Question - What made you start slower today? You cannot start like that tomorrow.
Daniel’s Answer - Lately I have been trying to be more intense in my training at the academy so that I can be more prepared for the fitness part of playing tournaments.
I’m still tired, so I will work harder in training. For now, I will get more rest, maybe a massage and drink a half gallon of water before I go to bed.
Coach Sam’s Question - Are you maintaining your humility?
Daniel’s Answer - Yes, being so tired helps me to be more humble since I have been here.
Coach Sam’s Question - Have you completed your academic school assignments?
Daniel’s Answer - Yes, I have to keep my average above a 2.0 in order to compete In the tournaments.
Coach Sam’s Question - Do you have any nagging injuries?
Daniel’s Answer - No. not at the moment.
Coach Sam’s Question - Have you had your recovery foods?
Daniel’s Answer - Yes, I have my carbs and fresh fruit by my side.
Coach Sam’s Question - How have you been handling the increased attention at the tournament?
Daniel’s Answer - Many of the people have been noticing me and talking about me. I stay humble and focused on why I am here and what I have to do on and off the court. Right now I’m tired. With rest, I’ll be ready for tomorrow’s Semi-Final.
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