Q&A with tennis' Meghann Shaughnessy on her superstitions
By Andy Halperin // usolympicteam.com // June 20, 2002
Meghann Shaughnessy has definitely arrived. The 23-year-old has earned a reputation as one of the hottest young tennis players in the world and has elbowed her way in among some of tennis' most elite with recent victories over Venus Williams, Monica Seles and Conchita Martinez. In 2001, Shaughnessy reached her highest singles ranking ever at No. 11, and closed out the year ranked No. 12 in the world. During her career, she has claimed two WTA Tour singles titles and two doubles titles, as well as six ITF Women's Circuit singles titles.
On June 19, the Arizona-native was named to the U.S. Fed Cup qualifying team by tennis legend Billie Jean King. The United States, who were beat by Austria in April, will play Israel on hardcourts in Springfield, Mo., July 20-21, for the chance to rejoin the Fed Cup world group next year.
While the Fed Cup in April ended in a disappointing first-round exit for Shaughnessy and her American teammates, it was her first experience as part of a U.S. team in international competition. It was one she enjoyed and hopes to repeat as she is considered one of the hopefuls for the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team.
Shaughnessy took time to answer a few questions about the sport she began playing at age 6, as well as share some of the superstitions she employs to gain an edge over her competition.
Q1. How did you get your start in tennis?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: I started playing tennis when I was six years old. Most of the time I was either playing with my Dad or against a wall.
Q2. Who was your tennis role model growing up?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: My role model was always Steffi Graf. I just always admired how disciplined and fit she was.
Q3. What is your favorite surface to play on?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: My favorite surface is clay. I think it makes tennis much more exciting. I love sliding and playing longer points.
Q4. How do you condition yourself physically to play long, grueling matches?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: I spend a lot of time doing physical conditioning. I workout at the Athletes' Performance Institute in Tempe, Arizona. We focus on every area: strength, speed, endurance, explosiveness, flexibility, nutrition, etc.
Q5. How do you mentally prepare before each match?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: Mental preparation before matches is very important. I think the two key components are to be focused and motivated. I stick to my routine and don't allow any outside distractions. I also like to listen to energetic music, which helps me get excited and motivated.
Q6. Do you have any superstitions?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: I do have some superstitions. For example, if I'm doing well in a tournament I like to sit at the same breakfast table, warm up on the same court, use the same shower, stuff like that.
Q7. How do you relax and unwind after each match?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: I like to unwind after a match just by taking a shower, stretching, having a good meal, and a massage is always nice!
Q8. When you're down in a match, what do you tell yourself and how do you come back?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: When I'm down a set I just try to stay positive. If I'm not playing well I actually convince myself the match is just starting and I'm going to win in two sets.
Q9. If you could play on Center Court at any tennis venue in the world, where would it be?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: My favorite center court is at the French Open. It's such a special place. I love it because the fans get so excited and into the matches.
Q10. What are some of your goals for the rest of your tennis career?
MEGHANN SHAUGHNESSY: My main goal is to reach my fullest potential. As far as results, I want to win a few Grand Slams and maintain myself as a top 5 player for some years.
