Belinda Bencic is an active social media presence, who has read both complimentary and critical comments about herself on Twitter.
So how does the 18-year-old Swiss cope with the critics?
Evert: Halep Poised for Major Breakthrough
She doesn't care.
"I mean, you have to look at the people who write this stuff on social media. What have they reached in life?" Bencic told the media in Sydney. "I mean, really, I'm looking that way, of course. Sometimes it's like really negative. For me, I try to take the positive things.
"I'm having fun on social media. I think that's the most important thing. Of course there are always going to be some fans of other players who don't like you. I think it's normal. I'm just—I don't care."
Monica Puig held a 4-0 lead over Bencic in the Sydney semifinals when rain washed out play on Thursday. The match will resume on Friday.
Bencic beat four of the world's Top 6 players—Caroline Wozniacki, Ana Ivanovic, world No. 1 Serena Williams and Simona Halep—winning the Toronto title last August. Her game has evoked comparisons to mentor Martina Hingis, but Bencic insists increased expectations have not created excessive pressure.
"I think even because I'm young and up and coming I don't feel any pressure. Why would I? I have time, and just no one expects—well, now the people start to expect a little bit more from me," Bencic said. "Me, I'm just enjoying to play and to be on the tour and to be now one of the top players. I'm able to play semifinals tomorrow, so I can really enjoy.
"Of course, I mean, a little bit pressure is always for everyone, but, I mean, I have to deal with it. I think I'm just taking it relaxed with my team. I don't care what other people are expecting in me."
Photo credit: Christopher Levy