In a candid and heartfelt interview, professional tennis player Jenson Brooksby recently shared his journey of living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Brooksby, who was once ranked No. 33 in the world at just 21 years old, has faced numerous challenges both on and off the court. His openness about his diagnosis is a powerful step towards raising awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding autism.
Brooksby was diagnosed with autism at the age of two and a half, and he was nonverbal until the age of four. He spent about 40 hours a week with therapists to develop his communication and social skills. Despite these early challenges, Brooksby has made remarkable progress and credits his autism for giving him a unique strength in high-pressure moments on the court.
“Autism is something I don’t want to have to keep to myself,” Brooksby said during the interview. “It’s a big part of who I am, and I want people to know me fully.” He explained that his autism allows him to focus intensely on specific details, which can be an advantage in tennis. However, he also acknowledged that it can make dealing with frustrations during matches more difficult.
Brooksby’s journey has not been without its obstacles. He faced a suspension for missing three doping tests within a year, which was eventually reduced, allowing him to return to the sport. He is set to make his comeback at the Challenger event in Canberra before competing in the Australian Open.
By sharing his story, Brooksby hopes to inspire others who are on the autism spectrum and to encourage greater understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity. His courage and determination serve as a reminder that with the right support and mindset, individuals with autism can achieve great things.
As Brooksby prepares for his return to professional tennis, he continues to advocate for autism awareness and acceptance, proving that personal challenges can be transformed into sources of strength and resilience.