Young American

By Sarah Holt
BBC Sport at Wimbledon

I get the most attention at the US Open but it's not like I'm having things named after me like Murray Field Donald Young

If you are looking for another teenage sensation to fill the gap at Wimbledon left by Andy Murray, look no further than American hot-shot Donald Young.

Young is just 15 but in January he became the youngest ever male to win a junior Grand Slam in Australia, cementing his place as the junior world number one.

One month later, he made his debut on the ATP Tour in San Jose, further fuelling the hype building around him as the Tiger Woods of tennis.

The laid-back teenager from Chicago deals easily with the media attention - even if he turns to ask his mother after a round of interviews, "Did I do OK?"

"The pressure doesn't get to me," Young told BBC Sport. "I'm just happy to be here.

"I guess I get the most attention at the US Open but it's not like I'm having things named after me like Murray Field.

"Do I have any advice for Murray? No, because I'm not there yet, he's ahead of me right now."

While Murray reached the third round on his senior debut at Wimbledon, Young is content to continue in the junior ranks for now.

Here at Wimbledon, the lean left-hander has reached the quarter-finals of the boys' singles and is feeling confident.

I will be 16 this year so maybe in about two or three years I could turn pro Donald Young

But Young, who is coached by his parents, insists that patience is the key to developing his career.

And after winning the prestigious Orange Bowl junior tournament at just 14, Young is entitled to take his time before turning professional.

"When I won the under-16s Orange Bowl that was when I knew I had ability," said Young.

"And when I won the Australian Open my parents put pictures up of me in the club showing me holding me the Australian Open trophy. They were really proud

"I'd say my biggest weapon is my mental strength - that's not like a shot though - I'm a fighter on court.

"But I'm still taking it easy. I will be 16 this year so maybe in about two or three years I could turn pro.

"I am ambitious, to win any Grand Slam would be great. But for now I want to keep doing the juniors and just keep improving.

"When I get back after Wimbledon, I have school work to do," says Young, smiling over his shoulder at his mother, who is in charge of his academic affairs.

"I always try to get out of it but I have to do it. I mean, tennis means a lot to me but it's not my whole life."