Accents reveal much about a person, and for Felix Balshaw, the 20-year-old son of England Rugby World Cup winner Iain Balshaw, his strong French accent tells a story of his journey in professional tennis. Celebrating his first ATP Tour victory this week, Felix, born in West Yorkshire, has embraced his life in Biarritz, where his father played rugby after moving from England.

Felix shared, "We came down in Biarritz in 2009 and we just loved the place." Having broken into the world’s top 200 last month, he feels increasingly French, stating, "Since I've been little, I have always had the French flag by my name."

His ties to England are limited, with rare visits across the English Channel for family gatherings, and he has never been to his father's hometown of Blackburn. Yet, he acknowledges his father's legacy in English sports, particularly his role in England's 2003 World Cup triumph.

Before facing fellow Frenchman Corentin Moutet in the Lyon Open, Felix drew inspiration from his father's highlights, expressing pride in his father's achievements. Despite having a talent for rugby, he chose tennis at age 13, finding a deeper passion for the sport.

Felix resembles the rising star Arthur Fery, having beaten Jaime Faria for his maiden tour-level win. With a Roger Federer-style one-handed backhand and a unique celebration, he is set to rise into the top 180 next week, having started the season ranked 718th.

While the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) seeks to nurture British talent, Felix has never been contacted to represent his birth country. He emphasizes that his parents prioritize his happiness above all, with his future in tennis brightening as he continues to climb the ranks.