It's no secret that this is the most difficult time of my career so far. Losing in the first round of the US Open hurt a great deal, I can tell you that.
I feel mentally exhausted. This season has been very difficult in terms of my health and form: even though I'm in great shape in terms of my stamina and speed, I've been picking up so many small injuries. Just when I felt like I was close to getting back into my rhythm, I would feel pain in a new place, and then I'd feel like I'm starting all over again.
It's obviously affected my confidence and I've overanalysed it too, and let if affect me far too much - not just the injuries, but my desire to get back to the top.
I feel like I haven't had a proper break in such a long time. Now I think the best thing to do is to take a week or two off, to totally switch off from tennis, and come back refreshed for my next tournament, which is in Tokyo at the end of the month.
After that I will play in Beijing: they're two big tournaments, so there is still a lot to play for. It would be great to end the season on a high, going into next year.
Thanks a lot for all your messages of suport. It has been very touching to read them in the past couple of days. At the same time, I would like you all to know that I am fine! Of course, I am very disappointed, but I am really optimistic for the future too!
Love
Ana
