Jenson Brooksby talks about life with autism

Jenson Brooksby, the rising star in the tennis world, recently opened up about his journey with autism spectrum disorder in an interview with The Associated Press. The 24-year-old Californian, who was nonverbal until the age of four, shared his struggles and triumphs with the developmental disability that has shaped his life both on and off the court.

Brooksby spent extensive hours in therapy as a child to develop his communication and social skills, a process that he credits for his progress in overcoming the challenges associated with autism. He described autism as a “big strength” in pressure moments during matches, allowing him to focus intensely on specific details for extended periods. However, he also acknowledged that the condition can lead to outbursts when he is losing or upset about his performance, a behavior closely monitored by his trainer, Paul Kinney.

In addition to his personal journey with autism, Brooksby also faced setbacks in his professional tennis career, including injuries, surgeries, and a suspension related to missed drug tests. The International Tennis Integrity Agency initially handed him an 18-month ban, but the punishment was later reduced after new information was presented during an appeal. Michelle Wagner, a behavior analyst who worked with Brooksby as a child, provided insights into how autism impacts his decision-making and executive functioning as an adult.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Brooksby remains determined to make a comeback on the Challenger Tour in Canberra, Australia, before competing in the Australian Open. He has assembled a new coaching team to help him improve his game and physical condition, aiming to reach new heights in his tennis career. With notable victories over top players like Novak Djokovic and Stefanos Tsitsipas, Brooksby’s potential to become a top-10 player has garnered praise from within the tennis community.

By sharing his story of living with autism, Brooksby hopes to raise awareness and promote understanding among his peers and fans. He wants people to see him for who he truly is, embracing all aspects of his identity, including his journey with autism. As he prepares to return to the court, Brooksby’s courage and resilience serve as an inspiration to those facing their own challenges, both in sports and in life.