Tennis Star Jenson Brooksby Reveals Autism Diagnosis Ahead of Australian Open Return

The former top-33 player opens up about his struggles and strengths with autism as he prepares for his first tournament in nearly two years following injury and suspension.

Jenson Brooksby, once ranked 33rd in the world, has publicly disclosed his autism diagnosis, describing it as both a challenge and a source of strength in his tennis career.
The 24-year-old American spent nearly two years away from professional tennis due to injuries, surgeries, and a suspension for missing three anti-doping tests, which was later reduced from 18 to 13 months.
Brooksby shared that he was nonverbal until the age of four and underwent intensive therapy during his childhood to develop communication and social skills.
He emphasized that autism aids his focus during high-pressure moments on the court but can lead to emotional outbursts and challenges in decision-making off the court.
Brooksby is set to return to competition in January 2025, starting with a Challenger event in Canberra before participating in the Australian Open, where he last competed in 2023.