The Briton’s mounting success over the last year has brought with it a lot of new experiences and opportunities to develop.
Competing on the Arthur Ashe Stadium in front of thousands, with millions more watching at home is something that very little practice or training can prepare you for, but Fearnley feels he’s learning to manage those big occasions the more exposure he gets.
“It’s been a bit of a change for me, playing my first year on tour,” he said. “What I’ve learnt the most is just what it’s like being on the tour – travelling and playing the best players in the world is something I’ve always wanted to do but it comes with its challenges.
“I’ve definitely improved as a player and as an individual, getting used to that environment. It’s been a really cool experience for me.
“I’ve played some pretty big matches on big courts. I take a lot from them. I go in pretty nervous, you’re playing on big courts against some of the best players in the world – I played (Alexander) Zverev in two of the Slams this year and he was No.3 in the world.
“You look at my match against him in Australia and the US and I think you see improvements – I played better, I held my own a bit better. The more you have those opportunities, the more relaxed and comfortable you feel and the better you play.”
With so much change this year, playing new tournaments, visiting new places and competing at the highest level of the game, there’s been little chance for Fearnley to stop, take breath and look back on his successes so far.
While it’s good to stay focused on the next challenge ahead and the demands on a professional tennis star, the Briton is conscious of his rapid rise and takes great pride in the work he’s done to get to this point – with more still to come.
“I try and find time to reflect but the schedule is pretty full on,” Fearnley admitted. “When I do go for a walk or have that time to reflect I look back fondly on what I’ve done as a tennis player over the last year. I don’t take that lightly. I am very proud of myself and everyone around me who has helped me. It’s a pretty cool achievement – hopefully I can keep going.
“Davis Cup was a highlight, getting a call-up and a win against (Kei) Nishikori in Japan was pretty huge. Winning my first round at every Slam is a pretty cool achievement, playing (Nick) Kyrgios in Australia, my first top-20 win in Madrid, there’s a lot of moments that I look back fondly on.”
Fearnley and the rest of the Lexus GB Davis Cup team will take on Poland from 12-13 September in the Davis Cup World Group I. The winner will get to compete in the Davis Cup Qualifiers in 2026 for the chance at making the Finals. Watch the action live on Tennis Channel.