SEVILLA, September 6, 2023

Hugo Gaston is one of the rising French tennis stars, captivating fans and experts alike with his unique playing style and impressive performances on the court. Born on September 26, 2000, in Toulouse, France, Gaston has quickly made a name for himself on the circuit.

Gaston’s journey into professional tennis began at an early age when he started playing the sport in his hometown. Known for his exceptional speed, court coverage, and relentless determination, he quickly progressed through the junior rankings, gaining valuable experience and honing his skills.

However, it was in 2020 that Gaston truly announced his arrival on the international tennis scene. At the French Open that year, he made a remarkable run to the fourth round as a wild card entry, where he faced some of the sport’s biggest names. What caught the attention of fans and experts was his unconventional playing style, marked by his incredible ability to hit drop shots from almost anywhere on the court. This audacious approach, combined with his relentless retrieving, made him a crowd favorite.

Gaston’s remarkable journey at Roland Garros in 2020 included wins over Maxime Janvier, Yoshihito Nishioka and 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka. He was eventually defeated by Dominic Thiem but it was clear that he possessed the skills and mindset required to compete at the highest level.

Since then, Gaston has continued to make strides in his career. The lefty has steadily climbed the ATP rankings, reaching a career high World No. 58 in July last year. While he may not be the tallest player on the circuit, standing at around 5’8″ (173 cm), his speed and agility make him a formidable opponent on any surface.

The current World No. 99 is competing in the LX Copa Sevilla this week, playing on the unique yellow clay at the Real Club de Tenis Betis for the first time. We met Gaston after his first-round win over Spanish veteran Fernando Verdasco for an interview.

Tennis TourTalk: Congratulations! Good start into the tournament. What was the key to success in this match today?

Hugo Gaston: I played Fernando in Bordeaux last year and I lost 6-2, 6-2. I wanted to play him again, as I showed a bad performance but today I played a great match. It was difficult for him. The conditions are different with the yellow clay. I am happy about this match.

It was your first match on the yellow clay. How would you describe it and what is the difference to the red clay, we know in Europe?

The sliding is different and you need to adapt your game. After some practice and a couple of matches it will be better. Maybe it is a little bit faster. There is less clay than on the red courts. In general, it’s similar. 

You just returned from the US Open, where you qualified for the main draw and made it into the second round. How would you rate your performance in Flushing Meadows?

I didn’t play many matches on hard court this year. The goal was to get into the main draw. I played against three good opponents. It was a great experience but I want to do more.

Being ranked inside the Top 100 has probably been one of the biggest goals for the season?

I was ranked inside the Top 100 last year and I even want to do better this season, cracking the Top 50 and then we will see. Winning my first match here was a good start. 

How would you describe your own game style? What are your strengths and weaknesses on the court?

There are still many things to improve. I feel good on the court but I can do better. I am keen to work for it.

Can you tell us a bit about your practice situation and your coach?

My coach is Younes El Aynaoui, a great champion. We started our partnership in March. He will not be with me here in Sevilla, as he is with his family this week. I practice at the Toulousain Tennis Club and sometimes in Paris. 

The ATP website states that you’re a person that is always happy. What has to happen that this is changing?

It is not changing. I am just happy to play tennis. It is my work, doing sports is a really good chance. It’s unique. I try to give everything and I enjoy every moment.

Thank you and all the best.