Jo-Wilfried Tsonga has had a good year despite an injury-ridden start, due to which he could not participate in the Australian Open. He managed to win a title at the Moselle Open in Metz, France, reached the semifinals of the French Open and the quarterfinals of the US Open. He feels however, that he has bigger fish to fry next year.
His goals are set for both the Grand Slam and Olympics stages in 2016. 'Rio? My goal is the gold medal. I'll give my best for my country, I've great memories of London. Winning one medal for my country was incredible. When I was a kid I watched Olympics on TV and I dreamed to play there. In 2012, I was there and now I want to win a Gold medal.'
In his interview with O Globlo, he referred to his 2012 doubles silver medal win with partner Michael Llodra, as a factor that gave him determination to go one step ahead next year and win the gold for his country.
Another one of his goals is to shine on the big stage, 'I hope to win a Grand Slam. It remains my main goal. I have to win great tournaments and be consistent in order to make it (happen). At the moment that's my goal and because of it I love tennis.' If he manages to stay injury free and keep up a competitive level of tennis during key moments, he can try to tackle this target head on.
Tsonga was also asked about his most important wins as a tennis player, and he recounted memorable victories against David Nalbandian and Roger Federer: 'Against Nalbandian in the Masters 1000 Paris Final. The second against Roger Federer at the Roland Garros quarter-finals, it was very important for my confidence on clay; and the one (against Federer) at Wimbledon four years ago. The last one was my biggest win so far.'
Tsonga will be hoping to have a spectacular start to his season next year, and will especially be looking forward to showcasing his best tennis at the Australian Open.