You worked with Todd Woodbridge while he played singles and doubles. What did you take away from your time with him that has helped you with Jordan Thompson?
DES TYSON: Todd Woodbridge, what a fantastic player, professional and a perfectionist. In practice every ball that came his way, he was meaning to do something with it. He was always looking to improve his game. Jordan (Thompson) is a pretty similar character like Todd in many ways. Jordan is quite quick tempered, but very ambitious and hard-working. Todd (Woodbridge) has been a great role model for Jordan growing up. Like I said, Jordan has a temper, but I don’t mind a bit of fire in the belly. You certainly want to see that will to win from your players. But sometimes it can kind of cross the line and can get a bit ugly. Todd was the first to admit that he crossed the line after he cooled down. Jordan is very similar in that regard. They are both good people and highly ambitious and want to do the right thing all the time, but as a coach you just want to see them treat the game with respect. Whether it is the opponents, umpires, linesmen, or anyone involved in the match.
You started with Jordan in the beginning of 2015 when his ATP singles was no. 276, and he ended the year no. 154. Then he finished 2016 at no. 79. Can you describe what the two of you did to improve so much in just two years?
DT: Jordan and I started off with a mixed bag of Challengers, an Australian Open wild card and then Futures. For me, Jordan has two of the best qualities you can have, fantastic athlete and a hell of a competitor. My job as a coach is to try to add and build on those qualities that he has, so we just go out there each day and work on his game.
