Ethan Quinn’s Tennis Journey: Embracing the Team Spirit

NCAA 2023 Champion Faces Tallon Griekspoor in Roland-Garros Third Round

Friday, May 30, 2025 – Alex Sharp

Ethan Quinn’s tennis journey has been nothing short of remarkable. As the NCAA champion gears up for a critical match against Tallon Griekspoor in the Roland-Garros third round, his unique perspective on life and tennis comes to the fore. During his successful qualifying rounds, Quinn’s coach, Brian Garber, humorously likened traveling with him to being on the road with a “55-year-old man.” This comment piqued curiosity about Quinn’s approach to both the sport and life.

A Glimpse into Quinn’s World

Quinn, a rising star in tennis, chuckled when asked about Garber’s comment. “It’s fair. I’m not your typical 21-year-old,” he admitted. “I can be a bit uptight, and some guys on tour often suggest I should relax more.” Most importantly, Quinn’s ideal night out involves finding the best restaurants. He keeps a detailed list of places in cities like Rome, Madrid, Barcelona, and Paris. This unique habit sets him apart from his peers.

Because of his interests, Quinn also enjoys exploring antique stores and shares a bond with Garber over vintage watches. Although the world No. 106, soon to break into the top 100, hasn’t explored Paris’s treasures yet, he’s considering rewarding his coach with a special watch to commemorate this milestone trip. “If we win another round, I think he deserves one,” Quinn said thoughtfully. “But it has to be the right watch, something special.”

Overcoming Challenges in Tennis

Quinn’s tennis journey has not been without its challenges. Last season, victories were elusive, and his confidence waned. During RG 2024, he spent five weeks in Europe playing on clay courts without a single win. It was a difficult period for the Fresno, California native. Just before the US Open, fellow player Tommy Paul asked Quinn if he’d ever won a match playing below his best. Quinn couldn’t recall such a victory.

“Tommy’s point was that on tour, you’re not always at your peak,” Quinn explained. “Often, you’ll play at your B or C level, and top players can still win those matches.” Since adopting this mentality, Quinn has won matches even when playing at his B, C, or D level. Competing regardless of the outcome has been key to his improvement. For more on the mental strategies in tennis, check out this insightful article on mental health in tennis.

A Mental Shift Fuels Success

This mental transformation, coupled with extensive training, has thrust Quinn into the spotlight in 2025. His European clay campaign is a testament to his hard work. He defeated Corentin Moutet and Borna Coric to qualify in Barcelona, advancing to the second round in the Madrid Masters. “I’m more comfortable on clay this year,” Quinn noted. “We’ve focused a lot on my movement, and the results reflect our efforts.” Understanding clay court tennis can be pivotal, as highlighted in this informative article.

Facing the Best in Roland-Garros

In Barcelona, Quinn faced reigning Roland-Garros champion Carlos Alcaraz, putting up a strong fight before losing 6-2, 7-6(6). “I had a set point in the second set, which was thrilling, although I couldn’t capitalize on it,” Quinn shared. “Alcaraz might become one of the best clay-court players ever. Competing well against him was reassuring.” For a historical perspective on the sport, explore this link on the history of tennis.

A New Team Member

Victoria Azarenka, a former world No. 1, has recently joined Quinn’s dynamic group. “Victoria brings invaluable insights. She’s a Grand Slam champion who fits right in with us,” Quinn said. “She enjoys banter and is like one of the guys.” As Quinn prepares for the Quinn Griekspoor match preview, he reflects on his growth and the support he receives from his team.

Quinn, who made his Grand Slam debut at the 2023 US Open, has truly showcased his growth in Paris. On Thursday, he triumphed over Alexander Shevchenko in a grueling four-and-a-half-hour match. “Qualifying for a Slam is an emotional rollercoaster,” Quinn reflected. “Grigor Dimitrov’s injury in the first round was unexpected, but he encouraged me to seize the opportunity. I’m glad I did against Shevchenko.” As he approaches the Roland-Garros 2025 predictions, facing Tallon Griekspoor will be tough, but Quinn is eager for the challenge. 🏆