2013 is coming to a close and I thought I’d take the time to update everyone on my progress.

But firstly…

I just want say a massive THANKS to everyone who has read/shared/tweeted and commented on my last blog post which you can access HERE

I received well over 40,000 views on that post alone and I believe it generated a lot of interest because there are so many players/parents who have similar financial concerns to me. I hope it provided some insight into what it is like to survive on the tour.

I’ve created a slideshow of photos from 2013. Feel free to flick through them to see what I’ve been up to this year:

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There were many highlights for me throughout the year as well as some low moments. All in all, I am happy with the progress I made this year as I jumped from being ranked 401 in November 2012 to 220 in November 2013.  I also had the chance to play my first Grand Slam qualifying event in Wimbledon this year and I had some solid top 100 wins over guys like Ryan Harrison and Blaz Kavcic. I am continuing to learn on a daily basis what is required to become a top tennis player and I hope I can continue this progress throughout 2014.

Despite my progress in the ranks, I am still in a difficult position financially as I am only earning a fraction of what I am spending. I have relied heavily on funding from my local club as well as my own prize money to keep me out on the road competing. It is a constant challenge to fund myself on the tour and I am working extremely hard, both on and off the court to achieve what I want to achieve so I can stay out on tour competing. If you, or anyone you know would be interested in providing a contribution to support me on the tour, please contact me.

Next up for me is the Australian Open Qualifying event which runs from Jan 8-11, 2014. I’m really excited to go Down Under for the first time in my life and I’m hoping I can play well down there. I’ve done the preparation so now it is a question of trusting my game and letting it happen.

I will keep you guys updated on my progress throughout 2014.

In the meantime, you can follow me on Twitter here and you can ”LIKE” my Facebook Page here

Lastly, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy 2014!

All the best,

James