Start the car engine, take an unknown road and drive the way until the fuel runs out without a specific destination.
On many occasions, life places us in a similar situation, where we strive to move forward without knowing where we are going.
In a sport as lonely as tennis, this reality occupies the minds of many at the beginning of the journey.
Obviously, illusions are always present, many dreams cross your mind, but also that conscious voice that puts your feet on the ground.
It is a sport of frequent defeat and exceptional triumph.
Where even the possibility of being defeated, which already implies being present, becomes a privilege.
Many years ago, American tennis dominated the men's circuit.
Something similar happened with the women's competition, which has placed eternal names in the history of this sport.
Many factors helped to have more fuel in that tank.
The economic power of the American federation, the large facilities, a wide organization of tournaments... In short, a solid base to help the players financially.
Talent is worked on, no one is going to arrive with a passport in their hand, but talent is also wrapped up.
During my career I have encountered realities that are difficult to ignore.
There are many stories of tennis players who have played a match knowing that it could be the last for financial reasons.
Win or put it aside.
Not having aid means not having access to better training, with coaches or physical trainers and everything that involves a professional tennis player.
Many will remember Jimmy Connors, John McEnroe, Jim Courier, Pete Sampras or Andre Agassi.
They are the history of our sport, leaders of several generations of tennis players, reaching the top of the ranking and Grand Slam trophies at some point in their careers.
Not since Andy Roddick won the US Open in 2003, however, has the US men's tennis crowned a
major
.
The average level in the circuits has grown a lot in the last 20 years.
Competitiveness and demand have multiplied, the number of tournaments has skyrocketed globally, and countries without tradition have joined the board, increasing the number of players competing for everything.
This translates into more opportunities for players outside of the United States and a more professionalized sport.
Normally, a player who wants to become a professional and reach the elite must travel to other countries.
The usual thing is that there is not a strong structure or a calendar broad enough to develop yourself without leaving the borders of your country.
A very different story has been written by Ben Shelton, a 20-year-old American tennis player who has reached the quarterfinals in this Australian Open.
The curious thing about his story is that he had never left his country until a few weeks ago.
With a remarkable game, he has placed himself among the eight strongest in a Grand Slam, and will seek the semifinals against his compatriot Tommy Paul.
Although it is an exception in a globalized world, they are realities that must be valued at all times.
Investment in the sport, a well-cared competition culture and a perfectly structured training system make the athlete flourish in the maximum expression of him.
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