Christopher Eubanks’ relationship with grass-court tennis this summer can neatly be summed up by a popular meme.
How it started: lamenting grass as the “stupidest” surface in the sport.
How it’s going: describing it as his “best friend” after moving into the Wimbledon last eight.
Late bloomer Eubanks knocked out Greek fifth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas on Monday, reaching a first Grand Slam quarter-final on his debut in the Wimbledon main draw.
“I feel I’m living a dream right now. This is absolutely insane,” said the 27-year-old American.
“I’ve tried to block everything out and focus on the next match. But as cliched as it sounds, it’s surreal, it’s unbelievable. I can’t believe this.”
Eubanks’ fortunes on the grass have completely changed following a text exchange with former world number one Kim Clijsters, who gave him advice on how to succeed.
After losing in the second round of an ATP Challenger in Surbiton last month, he sent a WhatsApp message to Clijsters.
“Kim! Grass is the stupidest surface to play tennis on,” he wrote.
Four-time Grand Slam champion Clijsters, who twice reached the Wimbledon semi-finals, responded with reassurance and a key recommendation – more footwork drills.
The transformation since has been incredible. Eubanks went on to win a title in Mallorca – on the main ATP Tour – and has continued his hot streak at the All England Club.
He has won nine matches in a row on the grass and will rise into the top 40 of the world rankings, having never previously cracked the top 100 until April.
Asked about his now famous “stupid surface” comment, he smiled and said: “Those words will never come out of my mouth for the rest of my career.
“Grass and I had a strained relationship over the years. Right now I think it’s my best friend.”
Eubanks feeling like an honorary Brit
The surface has won over Eubanks. The charming American has also won over the Wimbledon crowd.
After knocking out British number Cameron Norrie in the second round, Eubanks received a warm ovation on Court One and there was a rocking atmosphere as he shocked Tsitsipas on Court Two.
Fans have quickly warmed to his game, personality and backstory.
The 6ft 7in player’s serve is the bedrock of his success, winning 89% of his service games and hitting a tournament-high 85 aces so far, and it is backed up by thunderous groundstrokes.
Eubanks has hit a higher percentage of winners than any other player in the men’s draw, with 26% of his shots ending up beating his opponents.
Norrie, a semi-finalist…
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