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Q & A With James Blake
Looking back when you played junior tennis, what were the important elements that helped you become successful?
One of the most important elements that helped me to become successful from junior tennis is that I enjoyed what I was doing. It is something that at times can be very underrated, but having fun is important when you are young. That isn't to say that I wasn't extremely competitive and took it hard when I lost, but I enjoyed everything else about it. I enjoyed the practice and the competitions. Another reason for my success was the freedom to be the player that I wanted to be. I was never put into a mold. My coach never told me to be the next Sampras, the next Agassi or the next anyone. He wanted me to do what worked best for me. I think too many people get a little caught up in trying to be like their idols. But those people got there because of their specific talents and what worked for them. Should players turn pro or go to college?
Turning pro or going to college is a tricky question. I think that tennis is such an individual sport that you really have to do what is best for your situation. But having said that, I believe that there are really only a few exceptions that definitely should not go to college. I really don't think Andy Roddick should have gone to college. But he was number 1 in the world in juniors and already winning matches at the tour level when he would have enrolled in college. For me, it was invaluable, especially to have 2 years of being a part of a team and really growing up. It was a perfect stepping stone for me to be away from home, but still in a regimented environment. The experience of being held accountable by a whole team is something that you might not have for most of your pro career, but it does help you to mature as a person.
