Alex de Minaur is racing up the rankings.
After starting the season ranked No. 208, the 19-year-old Aussie has risen to No. 31 on the strength of his ferocious fighting spirit and fast feet.
TN Podcast: Karen Khachanov's Massive Future, Roger-Novak Rivalry
And while the Washington, DC finalist has already earned a reputation as one of the speediest players on the pro circuit—along with the nickname "Demon"—de Minaur admits his footwork was once faulty.
In an interview with The Telegraph's Charlie Eccleshare, de Minaur says sheer desire helped transform him from clumsy to quick around the court earning him speed demon credibility on tour.
"At 15 I was very clumsy, big feet and my footwork wasn’t great," de Minaur told The Telegraph. "I was definitely not quick. Then I don’t know, it just came.
"I think from not wanting to give up on any shot and trying to get to every single ball possible. Slowly from just touching the ball I got to making the ball and eventually hitting a decent defensive shot. Because I don’t have a lot of weapons I have to use my speed."
Jimmy Connors famously said "80 percent of balls that look beyond reach are actually makeable shots, but you'll never know if you don't go after it."
De Minaur grew up looking up to former world No. 1 Lleyton Hewitt, who is both Davis Cup captain and mentor to the young Aussie.
Asked who is quicker around the court: a prime Hewitt or himself, de Minaur gave a fast reply.
"Ha, that’s a debate we often have," de Minaur said. "If you ask him, he’ll say he’s quicker but I’m confident."
Photo credit: Daniel Huerlimann/Beelde Images