Former top 10 player Norrie enjoys fun low expectations from low ranking

PARIS - Cameron Norrie was once the world number eight, guaranteed a spot in the main draw of every major tournament, but these days the Briton enjoys his low-ranking underdog status that comes with a lot of fun and lower expectations, he said on Tuesday.

The 29-year-old, who is 81st in the world, battled past 11th seed Daniil Medvedev in five sets to reach the French Open second round.

I think its part of the game, said Norrie when asked about how he handles his low ranking.

For me, you have to accept where you are. For me, I had to go play qualies last week in Geneva. I was so pumped to play, so pumped to prove myself again.

Norrie has won five ATP Tour singles titles in his career and was a Wimbledon semi-finalist in 2022. But he said he now enjoyed being the underdog again.

Its actually quite fun to have that opportunity now to go, said Norrie, who had to deal with several injuries in 2024. Youre the underdog again, finally.

You can go and play. Anyone you play, youre most likely the underdog. You can go play, no expectations. Its so much fun. Its a completely different perspective.

Norrie next faces Federico Gomez of Argentina in round two REUTERS

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