Ed Sheeran Aids Aussie Tennis Star in Overcoming Burnout During Pro Tour

Alexei Popyrin Finds Balance Through Ed Sheeran and Books Amid US Open Bid

Australian tennis ace Alexei Popyrin is leaning on music, literature, and a renewed mindset to combat burnout as he gears up for his US Open first-round clash against Finland’s Emil Ruusuvuori. The world No. 37, fresh off a disappointing Wimbledon exit, credits a mental reset—and unexpected inspiration from Ed Sheeran—for his revived focus.

[Image 1: Popyrin in action at a tournament, caption: Alexei Popyrin aims to rebound at the US Open after a mental reset.]

Wimbledon Wake-Up Call
Popyrin’s shocking first-round loss to then-world No. 461 Arthur Fery at Wimbledon left him emotionally numb. “I didn’t feel sad or happy—just numb,” he admitted to ABC Sport. The defeat prompted a candid conversation with his team about managing the grind of professional tennis. “Burnout is a big thing on tour. We had to rectify it,” he said.

A post-Wimbledon trip to Bermuda with fiancée Amy Pate became a turning point. Popyrin rekindled his love for reading, devouring books at a rate of one per week. His favorites include sci-fi and fantasy, though he also tackled George Orwell’s dystopian classic 1984. “Reading lets me escape and reset,” he shared.

[Image 2: Popyrin relaxing with a book, caption: Popyrin rediscovered his passion for reading during a getaway to Bermuda.]

Ed Sheeran’s Role in the Routine
Music also plays a key role in Popyrin’s routine. He attended an Ed Sheeran concert in England this summer, citing the hit You Need Me, I Don’t Need You as a personal anthem. “The energy and lyrics resonate with me—it’s about perseverance,” he said.

US Open Challenge Ahead
Popyrin faces a tough path in New York. A potential second-round clash with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner looms if he defeats Ruusuvuori. But the Aussie remains unfazed, buoyed by last year’s third-round upset of Novak Djokovic at the same event. “I’m a better player now mentally and physically,” he declared.

[Image 3: Popyrin celebrating a past victory, caption: Popyrin stunned Djokovic at the 2024 US Open.]

De Minaur’s Aussie Showdown
Meanwhile, eighth seed Alex de Minaur faces a first-round battle against compatriot Chris O’Connell. “Chris is tricky—he’s got unique weapons,” said de Minaur, wary of the challenge.

Popyrin’s journey underscores the importance of balance in high-pressure sports. As he put it, “Tennis isn’t just about the wins. It’s about staying grounded—and sometimes, that means Ed Sheeran and a good book.”

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