World number 11 in the ATP Ranking, Fabio Fognini shared his tennis story with BehindTheRacquet.com.

The Italian is one of the most interesting personas on the Tour. Fognini has won his first 2 ATP titles already in 2013 and belonged to the top of the ATP Ranking since that moment. Now, the 33-years-old Italian spent already a lot of time as a professional tennis player and shared his tennis story.

“The worst time of the year for me is between December and January when I am really close to flying again. I have a long pre season, see friends, some good dinners, and then I get back on the road. I always get sick days before I am about to leave. Sometimes a fever or a cough, and I just tell myself it is going to be okay. it has been like this for about 10 years. It happens because after having the chance to be at home, close to family and friends, it is almost like I am part of another life. I am still practicing but to have the chance to catch up with everyone doesn’t really happen during the season. I remember my first child being eight months old, and Flavia and I were in Miami again for pre season. That time was unique. I was about to fly out to Australia and I began to cry like a baby. I just couldn’t imagine leaving them," Fognini said.

"I had moments in my career where I thought about taking some time off. The first time was not by choice. I was 18 years old and my wrist was in a lot of pain. I went to the doctor who said surgery was my only choice. I was so nervous, asking all these questions. I was young and didn’t know what having the surgery really meant. The doctor told me there would be a 50% chance I would not be able to play tennis again. To this day I have never had surgery and I grateful for that decision I made," said Fognini.

"It was two years ago and I started off the season really poorly. I started the clay season with a couple first round losses and no confidence. During the three months before I kept telling myself that I needed time off to rest. That I should practice and just get ready for Monte Carlo. I was alone during the South American swing and also Miami. I felt lonely and the little time I got to see my family in between wasn’t enough. I kept asking myself what should be doing. I found some motivation and told myself I should stay and fight. I was down 6-4, 4-1, break point during the first round of Monte Carlo. I not only managed to come back in that match, but I won the tournament. I pushed harder than I have before to get myself through that first match and ended with the best result of my life," Fognini said.

"My first passion was football. There were times I rather play football than tennis but it is tough to say that when tennis gave me this life. It is difficult because tennis is a job now, not a sport. Football is my favorite sport and I watch as much as I can. It was when I was younger when I decided tennis was for me. Football was amazing but tennis gave me the responsibility I wanted. If I lose it is on me just like it is if I win," said Fabio Fognini.

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