It can be tough and lonely on the road, but at the end of the day we get to play professional tennis for a living, and I wouldn't change it for the world.
For me it's just never being satisfied with what I've done and always just wanting more and more.
It's one of those things where eventually in your career, it kind of switches from being the young up-and-comer to someone who has had results and the other person is trying to raise their level to play. I think it's a privilege.
I really wanted a tennis dress. My parents told me that if I played, they would buy me one. I was like, 'Hey, I'll try it.'
Every single day, my parents fed me balls. Eventually it turned into having a coach, and then it went to being at an academy. You know, it worked out pretty well.
My priority when I get off the plane and get to a city is get situated at the hotel and then go on site and get a good practice in. Sometimes working out can help with getting over jet lag as well.
I've tried my best to be a good role model for my two younger sisters.
It was tough because I was on the road so much, on top of everything. I went through what every girl goes through emotionally in life, going through high school. It wasn't easy.
I think I have slowly kind of had my name out there a little bit more and had some success.
My mom has always been that person who keeps me grounded, and my two younger sisters are always cheering me on.
I would be lying if I said I wanted to wake up and work out every day.
For me, losing is definitely not easy, but I think you just have to keep everything in perspective. Just remember that there's another tournament around the corner.
My mom and grandma always told me: if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. It's something everyone needs to be more conscious about. Putting more positive energy out into the world would be so beneficial.
Usually before matches I eat plain pasta with a little bit olive oil, salt, pepper and chicken.
We do a lot of lifting, and mix it up with upper body and lower body. A lot of circuit training for cardio. I hate just doing long distance running, so I do 5 or 6 different exercises for 20 to 30 seconds then move to the next one.
I think no matter who you are, or what you do, just be nice.
I've done some meditation stuff like apps on my phone, but sometimes it's just about breathing deeply taking some deep breaths and slowing my mind down and focusing and something simple that can really help quiet my mind.
I think it's just really good to be honest with yourself and if I'm not feeling up for something I have no problem staying in my room in ordering some food and relaxing and managing my energy and kind of just checking in with myself throughout the day.
I like weightlifting and cardio workouts, and I'll do a lot of circuit workouts and plyometric as well.
I'm obsessed with my couch. I have the greenest couch on the planet.
