Back in February, I was excited that (based on questions from Mom in the City readers) I won a Mom’s Night Out package. As part of the package, I was able to get ten questions answered by the reigning US Open tennis champion Kim Clijsters. I thought that all of her answers were on point, but I especially loved what she had to say about pressure being a privilege. Sometimes in the busy nature of life I can forget that. It was a nice reminder. (I wrote it in my organizer!)
1. At what age would you recommend starting a child in tennis?
A: When the child themselves picks up a racquet and wants to play, a parent should never force the child, the desire comes from the child themselves.
2. What character traits do you think playing tennis builds in kids?
A: A lot of things, responsibility (since it’s an individual sport), the difference between winning and losing, being a good sport when you lose and being humble when you win. It teaches you the value of hard work and dealing with pressure also.
3. At what age did you start playing and who was/were your number one supporters?
A: I started when I was around 5 with my older cousins and my mum and dad, having been athletes themselves were very supportive.
4. What tips would you give to mothers regarding starting kids in tennis?
A: Let the child enjoy themselves, sports should be fun when you are young and shouldn’t get too serious until later.
5. Was tennis an inborn talent or do you feel it was something that you learned well and then better developed?
A: That’s a good question. I think you can’t teach talent, but talent alone is no good without hard work, and I did work very hard.
6. Did becoming a mother change your perspective as an athlete?
A: It does in some ways. It’s nice to have my family to come home to after a tough loss now, and traveling on the tour is a lot easier with your family.
7. I’d love to know who your role models are as far as moms with high profile careers outside the home.
A: I don’t look up to anyone in particular. Being a working mother myself, I admire all the mothers who do try to balance their careers with their family lives, because I know how challenging it is!
8. What are your best tips for combining a challenging, high-profile career with parenting?
A: Being organized, having a supportive partner, a nanny you can trust if that’s an option for you, and making the time for your career and family separate so that you get a good balance.
9. Who are the people (family, friends, caregivers, etc.) that help to make your life work?
A: Personally my family, grandparents, relatives, our nanny Nicole, in-laws and of course my husband. Professionally my whole team, my coach, physio, manager everyone associated with my tennis career.
10. Any parting words of wisdom that you try to live by?
A: Live each day to its fullest and as Billie Jean King says, interview questions to tennis star and fellow mom, Kim Clijsters, don’t forget that.