First two years after the Roland Garros win weren't easy: Kimmer

"It's been tough. The first two years after the Roland Garros victory weren't easy. I feel I did well during my transition period, managing to sneak into the top-100 in 2015," said Kimmer in a sombre tone. 

Despite getting knocked out in both the categories in successive days in the ATP Chennai Open Challenger, the Belgian seems to be enjoying his first trip here. 

"I have been to India quite a few times but this is my first visit to Chennai. It has been a good stay for me. The tournament is being organised well and the people are friendly," he added. 

After achieving his career best ranking of 97 in 2015, the 24-year-old dropped his pace off in the next two years, drifting close to 200 in the men's singles category of the ATP rankings.

Speaking on his goals for the calendar year, the Ostend-born lad said, "Yes, I have slipped up but I am focussed on breaking the top 150-mark again in the circuit. And there are also few goals which I am looking to accomplish with my technique as well." 

When asked about what he does during his time outside the tennis court, he replied, "I am mostly on the road for most part of the season. I like to stay with my family during my off days as I hardly get quality time to spend with them."

The English Premier League is now home to Belgian superstars like Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne et al, but Kimmer has little interest in a sport which people are crazy about in his country. "I am not a big football fan but I do follow the Belgium players in the Premier League," he signed off.