They say where there’s a will, there’s a way. Look at America’s promising star, Jenson Brooksby. Defying all odds, the Californian player rose to an impressive ATP ranking of 33 at 21. However, his journey hasn’t just been about tennis but also resilience. Battling a serious condition like autism, Brooksby didn’t let anything stand in his way. Two years after returning to the court, the Californian athlete lays bare his struggles, proving that with pure determination, no dream is out of reach.

Brooksby is all set to play at the 2025 Melbourne Slam. This American player received an 18-month suspension from the ITIA in October last year. He wasn’t accused of doping, but he failed to appear at three doping tests within 12 months. Brooksby claimed that it happened due to miscommunication with the doping officer in the Netherlands when the officer tried to locate him in a hotel and mentioned how it “was not due to any negligence on (the player’s) part.” The Californian player appealed to ITIA and his punishment was reduced, making him eligible to return to the court in March instead of next year January. However, more than this controversy, what proved even tougher for Brooksby was his constant struggle with autism.

During one practice session a few days back at the USTA National Campus in Florida, the American ATP star reflected on his journey with the disorder trying to raise awareness among people while talking to the Associated Press. This American ATP star shared his experience on his IG platform with a post that truly inspires people. “The last 23 months have very been tough on me. Surround yourself with good people and never give up. I am grateful to be returning to pro tennis in Australia. See you soon!” he wrote in his note highlighting his tough yet motivating journey. Despite having a disorder like Autism, Brooksby pursued his dream with intense hard work. Now, he shared his side of the story with the hope that people like him would find confidence in their lives from this story. “It’s time for me to share something that I have kept quiet for my entire life. This is my story. #autism #autismawareness #autismacceptance, “ wrote Brooskby in his post’s caption.

This American ATP star’s journey has been truly exceptional and he wishes to share that narrative with people. Did you know he was nonverbal till 4? “It’s … just something I don’t want to have to keep to myself, It’s obviously a personal topic that, even with people you may feel very comfortable with — in my mind, at least for a long time — it wasn’t (something) to just go blurting out as part of a conversation, you know?,” he said highlighting how roads become smoother if one pursues their dreams with a zeal. In front of Brooksby’s passion for tennis, his Autism Spectrum disorder couldn’t stand very long as an obstacle.

Nevertheless, this Californian star seems excited for his return. He revealed his happiness about participating in the 2025 Australian Open.

Jenson Brooksby feels “tremendous joy” about his return to the court

Brooksby played his last match at the 2023 Australian Open and made headlines after defeating then ATP number two Casper Ruud in the tournament’s second round. However, he was engaged in many ordeals (injuries and ITIA suspension) that kept him off the court for almost two years.  With his planned return at the Melbourne Slam, Brooksby said, “It gives me tremendous joy, and relief, that I can get back to doing what I love. The last 13 months have been exhausting, and a nightmare I don’t wish on anyone.” His words express his pain, struggles, and his happiness to have come this far despite constant ordeals. The ATP star has plans to attend a lower-level Challenger Tour in Canberra next month before heading for the Melbourne Slam. Brooksby resumed playing after suspension when he assembled a new team and appointed coaches Eric Nunez, Rhyne Williams, and Kinney.

Jenson Brooksby is an inspiration to many people struggling to pursue their dreams due to physical and mental disorders. This Californian player proved that determination and strong will can bring one success no matter the hurdle. Brooksby’s story motivates people to dream bigger and fight for it. It also teaches people to embrace their shortcomings and work on it so that they can create a future for themselves like they have always desired.