When Valentin Royer was a child, his father worked in the grocery trade across Eastern Europe. Meanwhile, Royer honed his tennis skills on the courts, embracing a challenging path to success. This determination has been a defining feature of the 24-year-old Frenchman’s career, contributing to his breakthrough season in 2025. After winning consecutive ATP Challenger Tour titles in March, Royer qualified for his first main-draw appearance at Wimbledon.
Royer reflected on his journey and work ethic during an interview with ATPTour.com at the All England Club: “I grew up most of my childhood there and I mostly focus on the work ethic that I was able to get from those countries,” he said. He emphasized the importance of hard work and sacrifice, recalling how he left home at 13 years old to pursue tennis.
Despite qualifying for Wimbledon being a significant achievement, Royer acknowledges that he is still early in his journey. With limited experience on grass courts before last week’s qualifying rounds at Roehampton, he remains relatively new to this surface. However, adaptability is one of his strengths. After advancing to the second round following Stefanos Tsitsipas’ retirement during their match, Royer finds himself navigating uncharted territory.
“There is no rise; you have to stay humble,” stated Royer, ranked No. 113 in the PIF ATP Rankings. He expressed aspirations beyond just reaching later stages of major tournaments and highlighted ongoing efforts to improve performance on grass surfaces.
In conversation with ATPTour.com, Royer’s quiet confidence was evident as he discussed recent successes and momentum gained since March’s 14-match winning streak on the ATP Challenger Tour.
“A little thing clicked in my head to be honest,” noted Royer regarding this turning point in form and mental resilience developed through physical preparation during preseason training sessions.
As he continues participating in Wimbledon against fellow countryman Adrian Mannarino during their Lexus ATP Head2Head clash second-round match-up—Royer appreciates being part of such an esteemed event: “It’s amazing; it’s just one of the most prestigious tournaments globally… It’s such a privilege playing here.”
The excitement surrounding competing at historic venues like Wimbledon resonates deeply within him: “It’s perfect timing… I’m living my dream by touring these unbelievable places.”