As he closes the books on his breakthrough 2023 season, French teen Arthur Fils is losing little time in making ready to push even greater in 2024.

The 19-year-old, who completed runner-up to Hamad Medjedovic Saturday on the Subsequent Gen ATP Finals introduced by NEOM in Jeddah, will stay within the Center East for a follow week with Rafael Nadal on the Rafa Nadal Academy in Kuwait.

“I used to be very pleased, very shocked when he requested me to practise with him,” Fils stated in his post-match press convention. “It is such a giant factor for me to play with one of many biggest gamers of all time. I’ll strive my finest for him however I’ve a giant season coming so I may also strive my finest for myself. I’ll attempt to take pleasure in it as properly.”

Regardless of the frustration of shedding in 5 units to Medjedovic after saving two match factors within the fourth set, Fils will be justifiably pleased along with his banner yr in 2023. He shaved greater than 200 locations off his Pepperstone ATP Rating through the yr to complete contained in the High 40.

“It was a pleasant yr for positive. I began at 250 however completed at 36, in order that’s fairly good. It nonetheless might have been higher. I misplaced some shut matches, like I did immediately, however it’s simply expertise and I’ll attempt to do higher subsequent yr.”

Fils, who had not received a tour-level match earlier than this yr, finishes 2023 with a 23-18 match file, together with his 4-1 mark in Jeddah. He received his first title in Lyon and in addition reached the Antwerp remaining.

Though Fils stated he has been impressed by the fast rise of Carlos Alcaraz, who grew to become World No. 1 final yr at 19, he isn’t placing stress on himself to emulate the Spaniard, a minimum of within the brief time period.

“My aim is to not be No. 1 on the planet in three months, as a result of it is not attainable,” Fils stated. “I’ve to work, to work, to work. I’ve to work within the gymnasium, work on the court docket, strive my finest in each match I play after which perhaps someday I will probably be a champion. I hope it comes quick, however not as quick as Carlos, as a result of what he did was loopy.”