Alex de Minaur has admitted that his recent post-match press conference was one of the most difficult moments of his season, revealing the emotional strain he felt after a performance that left him both frustrated and reflective.
The Australian star, competing in one of the biggest events of the year, appeared visibly shaken as he addressed the media following a loss that halted his momentum. Now, speaking more openly, De Minaur says the experience forced him to confront uncomfortable truths about his mindset and expectations.
“I didn’t want to be there… but I had to be honest”
De Minaur described the press conference as “agonising”, explaining that he was still processing the defeat when he was required to face questioning.
“I didn’t want to be there. I was hurting, and I was disappointed in myself,” he admitted.
“But I’ve always tried to be honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. That was one of those moments.”
The frustration was not only about the loss itself, but the feeling that he had not shown the level of tennis he expects from himself — particularly at such a significant stage.
The honest confession: “I’m harder on myself than anyone else”
In his candid reflection, De Minaur acknowledged that he carries immense internal pressure.
“The truth is, I’m harder on myself than anyone else,” he said.
“Sometimes I let that pressure get the better of me. That day, it definitely did.”
He explained that he went into the match with confidence but felt his game fall away when it mattered most, something he admitted has lingered with him longer than usual.
Learning from disappointment
Despite the emotional toll, De Minaur insists the experience has become a motivating tool as the season moves forward.
“It hurt, but it showed me where I need to grow,” he continued.
“I don’t want to shy away from these moments. You learn more from the tough days than the easy ones.”
His team has reportedly been encouraged by his openness, seeing it as a sign of maturity as he continues to chase a breakthrough at the very top level of men’s tennis.
A renewed focus for what comes next
While the defeat was a setback, De Minaur made it clear he is not dwelling on it.
“One match isn’t going to define me,” he said.
“I’ll take the lessons, move on, and be better next time. That’s how I’ve always approached my career.”
With major tournaments still ahead, the Australian believes he is mentally stronger for having confronted the emotional impact rather than masking it.
Fans praise his honesty
Supporters have responded positively to his openness, calling it a refreshing reminder that even elite athletes are human.
Social media reactions praised his humility and emotional transparency, with many saying it only increased their respect for him.
