“I was developing the persona that would become such an important part of my game. I was grunting when I hit the ball. Even then, I tried to set myself apart. No emotion. No fear. Like ice. I was not friends with the other girls, because that would make me softer, easier to beat. They could have been the nicest girls in the world, and I wouldn’t have even known it. I chose not to know it. I figured we could be friends later, after I retired, and they retired, when we all older and content. But not now, not yet. My biggest edge is that persona. Why would I give it up? Before I even go out onto the court, some of the other players are intimidated. I can feel it. They know that I’m strong. I have no interest in making friends on my battlefield. If we are friends, I give up a weapon.”
From Unstoppable by Maria Sharapova
Tennis star Novak Djokovic recently earned his 23rd grand slam title, winning 11 of the last 18 majors he’s played in. At 36, in a sport that is physically grueling, that’s amazing! He’s also not the most loved on tour and he’s certainly not friends with all the other players. But he’s a winner. In fact, he defeated the world #1 in the semifinals when his opponent confessed that his nerves had caused cramps. That’s intimidation!
Maria Sharapova shares that thinking. Enemies now, win now, and friends later. Go to war and then shake hands when it’s all done. Not before.
I watch a lot of sport and a lot of different sports, and I think this sentiment isn’t followed enough. I’ve often seen players who may later that day compete against each other hanging out and joking etc. I’ve never understood that. These interactions will affect a player. It may make them too relaxed or maybe even make them feel a little bad they’re beating someone they’ve come to like. They may concede a little. Inches can become a mile.
Coaches need to be careful of this, especially in communities and sports that are small. It is easy to let small things affect performances. Many years ago, I remember hitting an opponent in the face with my racquet and cutting his forehead open. I almost lost the match because I felt so bad about what I had done (even though it had been his fault). I learned a lesson that day. Battle now, friends after.