Jenson Brooksby is poised for an exciting comeback after nearly two years away from the court. Once ranked No. 33 in the world at just 21, Brooksby has faced a tumultuous journey. Filled with injuries, surgeries, and a suspension related to missed drug tests. Now unranked, he describes the past two years as “frustrating” and mentally taxing. But as he gears up to return to competitive tennis next month, his sights are set on the Australian Open. That’s where he will face formidable opponents like Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, and Novak Djokovic, amongst other top returning players like Nick Kyrgios.

While Brooksby’s path back to the top won’t be easy, he is determined to make an impact. With a combination of talent and unique shot-making skills, he has previously defeated major finalists and earned respect from legends like Djokovic. As he prepares for this new chapter, he aims to showcase not just his tennis prowess but also share his story.

The player’s journey during the last two years off the court

Brooksby has faced a challenging road over the past two years, culminating in a suspension due to missed anti-doping tests. Initially set to be banned until January 2025, his suspension has now been reduced to 13 months after new information emerged regarding the circumstances of his missed tests. The ITIA announced in February this year that his ban will end on March 3, 2024, allowing him to return to the court 10 months sooner than expected. They indicated that his “degree of fault … should be reassessed” based on undisclosed new information regarding the circumstances of his missed tests.

The California native has not competed since the 2023 Australian Open, where he made headlines by defeating No. 2 seed Casper Ruud in the second round. However, a series of injuries and surgeries kept him off the tour for most of that season. Reflecting on his time away from tennis, Brooksby expressed relief and joy at the prospect of returning on social media, writing, “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.”

As he prepares for his comeback, Brooksby is eager to share more about himself beyond tennis. In a recent interview with The Associated Press, he discussed his experience living with autism spectrum disorder. Something he wants people to understand as part of his identity before he sets foot back on the court.

Brooksby opens up about his life as a tennis player with autism

“I just want people to know me for who I am fully,” he shared during a post-workout lunch at the USTA National Campus in Florida. He began playing tennis at just four years old, hitting a softball against his garage door while waiting for his parents to take him to school. His childhood was filled with therapy sessions—up to 40 hours a week—to help him communicate better and navigate social situations, stating, “to be able to even just start talking … (and) then to get better at communication and social situations.” However, on the court, he didn’t let anything get him down.

Turning pro in 2021, Jenson Brooksby quickly made a name for himself, achieving a career-high ranking of No. 33 in June 2022. He made headlines by defeating six-time champion John Isner at the Atlanta Open and becoming the second-youngest finalist in Newport’s 46-year history. His impressive run continued as he reached the fourth round of the 2021 US Open, becoming the youngest American to do so since Andy Roddick in 2002. However, injuries and a suspension for missed anti-doping tests sidelined him, leaving him unranked as he prepares for the 2025 Australian Open.

Now, with renewed determination and a fresh perspective, Brooksby is eager to showcase his skills on the court again. He’s been working hard with his coaching team including Eric Nunez and Rhyne Williams, along with Kinney, who previously was with him in 2022. Will this young star surpass expectations and clinch his first title in 2025? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!