After defeating American Caty McNally in straight sets, Burrage fought back tears as she described her journey back from the brink.
Jodie Burrage, a rising star in British tennis, opened up about her near decision to quit the sport, overcoming adversity, and leading the charge for British players at Wimbledon.
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Throughout her career, the determined Londoner has faced numerous challenges.
“I’ve dealt with a lot throughout my career,” she said, shaking with emotion following a 6-1 6-4 win over an opponent ranked 67 in the world which catapults her into the top-100 for the first time.
“It hasn’t been easy. Three ankle surgeries, fractured knee, stress fracture arm, stress fracture rib, I could keep going and going.
“It’s been my biggest battle and after my third ankle operation my mind decided that was it. My tennis career was done.
“But somehow I got back on the horse with help from family and friends, and my boyfriend (Scotland rugby star Ben White) really helped me push through that not-so-nice time.”
She shared her emotional struggle, stating, “I’ve dealt with a lot throughout my career,” while acknowledging the doubters who said she wouldn’t make it to the top.
She also revealed a string of injuries, including three ankle surgeries, a fractured knee, stress fracture arm, and stress fracture rib. However, she refused to give up.
Burrage explained that after her third ankle operation, she believed her tennis career was over.
But with the support of her family, friends, and her boyfriend, Scottish rugby star Ben White, she found the strength to continue.
Despite enduring insults and even death threats on social media following a defeat in France, Burrage persevered.
Adding to their challenges, White was made redundant when the London Irish Premiership club went bankrupt last month. This unexpected setback deeply affected both of them.
Nevertheless, Burrage managed to impress at Wimbledon, setting up a second-round clash with world No.10 Daria Kasatkina.
During her match, Burrage encountered another unexpected incident when she discovered blood on the tennis balls.
This reminded her of a similar incident the previous year when she rushed to help a ball boy who was about to faint.
The sight of blood on the balls helped her relax and gain perspective, realizing that tennis isn’t the most important thing when someone’s health is at stake.
Despite a few nervous moments, Burrage swiftly won the first set and demonstrated the skill and composure that had led her to reach her first WTA final in Nottingham just a month prior.
In the final game of the match, she had five match points slip away before finally securing the victory on the sixth attempt.
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Overwhelmed with joy, she covered her face with her hands, savoring the magnitude of her accomplishment.
Jodie Burrage’s inspiring journey at Wimbledon serves as a testament to her resilience, determination, and ability to overcome obstacles.
