Groth hopeful for US Open after neck injury in Vancouver

Last week was a disappointing one after a good run in Aptos (where I reached the semifinals). After flying from California to Vancouver on Sunday, I woke up on Monday morning and couldn't move my neck. I tried to hit some balls lightly on Monday, but couldn't so went and saw the physiotherapist for treatment. I woke up Tuesday not much better. I attempted warming up for my match but couldn't, so was forced to pull out prior to round one.

With the US Open a week away and not being able to get on court, I was fortunate enough that my strength and conditioning trainer, Daniel, was with the Aussies who were at the tournament. We got into the gym and hit the bike pretty hard for the next three days. Hanging around tournaments, the days are pretty long when you are playing, but even longer when you can't play.

On the plus side, Vancouver is one of the nicest cities I've been too. The tournament is played in West Vancouver at the Hollyburn Country Club and has a view from the mountains, over the water, looking at the city. I had a great host family who took care of me for the week and I hope I can go back there and get to play at some stage.

On Friday, I flew to New York to start preparing for US Open qualifying, which starts Tuesday. I'm back on court and playing practice sets which is great, and after my good run in Aptos, am feeling confident about the week ahead. My coach, Billy Heiser, is back with me as well.

The draw for qualifying comes out on Monday so I will keep everyone up to date with who I play and when.