Duckhee Lee Answers Your Questions

Fans have been captivated by Duckhee Lee’s incredible story throughout the week at the Winston-Salem Open. The South Korean became the first deaf player to win an ATP Tour main draw match with his victory over Swiss Henri Laaksonen 

After a competitive three-set loss to third-seeded Pole Hubert Hurkacz on Tuesday, ATP Tour held an exclusive interview with Lee in the form of a Twitter Q&A. The 21-year-old took time to answer some of the many questions that fans had for him.

Do you have special routines before the match? Or are you superstitious?
I will wear the same clothes I win in and not wear the same clothes I lose in. When I’m angry or frustrated, I try to close my eyes and breathe deeply. I try to talk to myself and say that I can do it.

Is it difficult to be coached? Is it difficult to understand the chair umpire?
I think that we can read each other’s minds. But when my team is not around, we text each other. I don’t usually need to communicate with the umpire except for ‘in’ and ‘out’ calls, so that can be frustrating.

Who’s your favourite player?
I have to pick just one? I started playing because I wanted to be like Roger Federer and love his playing style. I also admire Rafael Nadal’s passion, Novak Djokovic’s fairness, Andy Murray’s effort & Kei Nishikori for how he represents Asia.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I like to play online games and watch cartoons, but also like to play games offline as well like bingo and baseball.

Do you think your disability can help you concentrate more on the game?
I think not being able to hear actually helps me. It means I have to concentrate more and try harder.

Is it difficult travelling and forming friendships on tour?
I don’t think I have trouble making friends. There are a lot of other Korean players that I’m friends with, so I don’t ever feel lonely.