British tennis player Arthur Fery had a strained interview with the BBC after his stunning victory at Wimbledon, during which he dismissed suggestions he was carrying the nation's hopes and revealed he was unaware that Princess Kate was watching his match.
Fery, 23, became the first home player to reach the third round at the Championships this year, recovering from losing the opening set 7-5 to Finnish opponent Otto Virtanen to claim the following three sets on Court 18. Princess Kate, making her first appearance at Wimbledon this year, watched alongside Tim Henman before heading to Centre Court.
Fery Unaware of Royal Presence
Speaking moments after the match, Fery admitted: 'No I did not [know Princess Kate was there]. I probably would have been a bit more tight if I did. Lots of supporters obviously at home in the UK so it is fantastic to play in front of everyone. It boosts all the Brits.'
The interview became increasingly charged when Fery was questioned about whether he had taken in the enormity of his achievement. He responded: 'No, obviously not. The match finished five minutes ago so definitely not. It is going to take some time and I am just going to try and recover the best as I can for my match in two days.'
Rejecting National Expectations
Fery also rejected the notion that he was 'playing for Britain' given the disappointing start the nation has experienced at Wimbledon, with Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper withdrawing before numerous first-round eliminations. 'It's great to do it for the UK, but selfishly, I am doing it for myself first,' he added. 'I am always behind the other Brits who are playing and I'm wishing the best to all the Brits.'
Fery, ranked as British men's No. 3, made it to the second round at Wimbledon last year and has his sights set on a deep run this time around. His next opponent will be either Zizou Bergs or Jaime Faria, in a section of the draw that remains wide open, with Jannik Sinner and Novak Djokovic positioned on the opposite side.
Emotional Victory
Reflecting on the match, Fery said: 'It's incredible emotions. It was such a tough match. After the first two sets I could see it really lasting a while the match. I am so happy with how I was able to keep my emotions in check and keep going. I am so happy to reach the third round.'
'It's just an accumulation of work and practices. I was playing well at the start of the year in Australia. The grass season I have been playing well and having good results. I feel really comfortable on the grass.'
