Healthy Hollywood continues to celebrate the hard-bodied athletes slugging it out on the courts at the U.S. Open.
Today, it’s all about the ladies and one German sensation in particular – Angelique Kerber. She’s ranked No. 9 in the world and has battled it out and beaten tennis royalty like Maria Sharapova.
It’s hard to believe this on-court sweetheart almost quit the sport a few years back after a string of heart-breaking losses. But, instead of giving up, Angelique decided tennis was her life and worked hard on her fitness to get back in the game.
Angelique took time out of her busy schedule to answer a few questions from Healthy Hollywood.
Healthy Hollywood: How do you prepare for a grand slam tournament, like the U.S. Open?
Angelique Kerber: Every Grand Slam requires a huge amount of preparation. The U.S. Open is unique in that it is the last one of the year. I personally do a lot of fitness and hours of practice on the hard court. But, I also try to enjoy the summer and do [a lot] my fitness outside, at the beach or cycling, hiking etc…
HH: Some players have pre-game rituals to keep them focused or as part of their routine, do you?
Angelique: I do not have any particular routine, but when I feel I’m losing my focus on important points and/or deep in the tournament, in between points, I’ll cover my head with my towel so I can try to get it back together and concentrate to come back into the game.
HH: To keep in good shape, can you describe your workout routine?
Angelique: My fitness training will depend on my coach’s mood, my feeling, the precedent match… We are doing so many exercises. I don’t even know how to begin the long list, but I can tell you I really hate fitness!!!!
HH: How important is nutrition to your game/well-being?
Angelique: I eat normal. I try to let myself enjoy a nice dinner; but [sometimes] I have to forget about eating Polish food (my favorite) every night. Like many athletes, pasta is my best friend on tour!
HH: What sort of qualities do you need to be champion athlete?
Angelique: Passion. Motivation. Concentration. Talent. Confidence. And, you need to work, work, and work……
HH: Finally, any advice you can share for young kids who dream of going professional one day?
Angelique: Believe in your dream, trust yourself and work hard!
To keep up with all the tennis action, check out www.usopen.org.
— Terri MacLeod
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