California fires put things in perspective

Sam Groth and Nicole Gibbs are giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional tennis all year long in My Tennis Life. To read more updates from Sam and Nicole, go to tennischannel.com.

Since I withdrew from the tournament in Monterrey, Mexico, it was a debate about whether I would get on court in Fairfield, Calif. After a good practice on Sunday, we picked up the pace on court Monday, and since I was feeling well enough, I played on Tuesday. I played Noah Rubin, and actually played my best match of this swing. Unfortunately, a loose service game at 5-6 in the third set was my undoing.

I played doubles with Bjorn Fratangelo—which was good fun. Bjorn has become a good friend on tour the last year or two and it was the first time we’ve had the chance to play together. We made it to the semifinals, and it was a good boost to win some matches ahead of Las Vegas this coming week.

The week in Fairfield was not really as much about the tennis as it was with the deadly forest fires that have been wreaking havoc in the northern California area. Several players had to be evacuated from their housing and the evacuation center was right next to the tennis courts. It really puts in to perspective what playing tennis means, when you have people who have fled their homes, not knowing if anything will be there when they return. The air quality was also a big issue throughout the week, with matches being delayed on a couple of days, and canceled on one.

This week it’s on to Las Vegas, where I won the title last year, so I’m excited to get back. It’s been a tough month on court but hopefully I can turn things around.