Mitchell taking major step in right direction

Mitchell has twice had a taste of action in the Melbourne major main draw, most recently going out in the first round against fellow Aussie James Duckworth, losing 8-6 in the fifth set.

But after winning the Canberra International Challenger tournament on Sunday, the Queenslander has high hopes for 2016.

“It’s definitely a big carrot,” he said.

“I’m really going to try and fight at the end of this year in those last couple of tournaments and put my hat in the ring for a wildcard.

“I’ve played there twice in the main draw, it’s given me enough experience to feel like I could win a few matches. It’s why we play, to play in the majors.

“Whether it’s qualifying or the main draw, the qualifying is still special.”

Mitchell will chase the Wollongong International title only in the first of two tournaments, with the $15,000 tournament final played on Sunday before it starts again next week. The 2010 Wimbledon junior finalist will then travel to the Japan Challenger event, before returning home to fine tune his Australian Open assault.

Ranked 247, Mitchell was as high as 204 this year and toppled world No 107 Matt Ebden on his way to claiming the Canberra crown.

“I got a lot of confidence,” he said.

“I’ve won a bunch of Futures (tournaments) before, but never a Challenger, so it was awesome to win one.

“To beat the Ebden, who was the best and most in-form player, it really opened the draw up.” 

At 22, Mitchell, who became friends with world No 2 Andy Murray  while acting as a hitting partner at the Hopman Cup in January, is focused on a breakout year on the circuit.

“For sure, it’s got to be soon,” he said.

“People thought it may be sooner rather than later, but everyone has their own path.

“I just take it one step at a time and Canberra was a huge step in the right direction. It’s a tough transition (from the junior ranks to seniors), I was a pretty late developer and did well in my last year of juniors. I feel like I’m maturing more each year. I’m a bit of a slow learner, so I feel like I’m getting there slowly.”

Mitchell played mixed doubles with Casey Dellacqua at this year’s Hopman Cup, replacing an injured Ebden. “To represent Australia was pretty cool, even though it’s only exhibition matches,” he said. “I got to hit with Andy Murray all week and struck up a bit of a friendship, so it’s a pretty cool connection to have.”

If Mitchell has his way, he may even face off against Murray at the Australian Open in January.