Jacob Fearnley, the 23-year-old Scottish tennis player, is set to make his return to Wimbledon in 2025, and he couldn't be more excited. After a remarkable debut last year where he faced the legendary Novak Djokovic on Centre Court, Fearnley is back with renewed vigor and ambition.

Awe-Inspiring Beginnings

Fearnley's journey to Wimbledon has been nothing short of extraordinary. Last year, he entered the tournament as a wildcard, ranked outside the top 500. Despite the odds, he managed to take a set off Djokovic in a thrilling second-round match. Now, ranked just outside the top 50, Fearnley has accumulated over $1 million in tournament earnings.

"It is a bit different this time," Fearnley shared with BBC Sport. "I have to keep reminding myself that this is still a really special place and not to take it for granted. Coming in as a wildcard last year, I was in complete awe, and to be honest, I still am. I get goosebumps when I walk in the gates."

Facing the Hype: Joao Fonseca

This year, Fearnley is set to face Joao Fonseca, the 18-year-old Brazilian sensation, on Court One. Fonseca has already defeated Fearnley in both of their previous encounters, including a recent match at Indian Wells in March.

"There's a reason why everyone talks about him," Fearnley acknowledged. "He's earned that respect from all the players. It's going to be a difficult match, playing on Court One. It doesn't get much better than that."

Inspiring Friendships and Professionalism

Fearnley has been practicing with Jack Draper, the fourth seed and Great Britain's top-ranked player. The two have been friends since their junior circuit days, and Fearnley looks up to Draper's professionalism and rise in the tennis world.

"We all look up to Jack and what he's done, with the rise he's had from where he was," Fearnley said. "It's very inspiring for a guy like me. I'm just trying to keep improving. Hopefully, one day I can be where Jack is, but the way he goes about his business is hard to follow. He's very professional, and the level he's playing is really high."

A Different Path to Success

Fearnley's path to professional tennis has been unique. Unlike many of his peers, he spent five years playing college tennis at Texas Christian University (TCU) before making his Wimbledon debut. He graduated just prior to his first appearance at the All England Club.

"I felt I only reached my college peak after my fifth year," he explained. "It's a time when you can mature and figure out what your priorities are. I realized tennis is what I want to do, and I then put all the eggs in one basket."

Looking Ahead

As Fearnley prepares for his match against Fonseca, he remains focused on his goals and the journey ahead. His experiences at Wimbledon have been awe-inspiring, and he is determined to make the most of this opportunity.

"I'm just trying to keep improving," Fearnley said. "Hopefully, one day I can be where Jack is, but the way he goes about his business is hard to follow. He's very professional, and the level he's playing is really high."

Fearnley's return to Wimbledon is not just a personal milestone but a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. As he steps onto Court One, he carries with him the awe of his first Wimbledon experience and the ambition to reach new heights in his tennis career.