Ana Ivanovic: «O que se passa fora do court nunca afectou o meu ténis»

Following her victory in Linz last week Ana was interviewed by the Mirror group of newspapers in India (Admedabad, Bangalore, Mumbai and Pune). The following is an extract from the Q&A session with journalist Avinash Rajput:

Q. It’s been a long wait for you to get your first title in two years. What was going on in your mind during the slump and how do you feel now?

A. It wasn’t much fun, I can tell you that! There were definitely some tough times, but I received unbelievable support from my family, my coaches, my management, my fans and my sponsors and that gave me confidence. I stayed positive most of the time and knew that things would come together eventually.

Q. You are known as a superstitious person, what was the luck-related ritual you followed during the Generali Ladies Linz?

A. Actually, I am not following many superstitions these days. I used to have so many, but it was too much. I still avoid stepping on the lines of the court, but I am not keeping old pennies or choosing dresses for luck, like I used to do.

Q. You are undoubtedly one of the best-looking tennis stars in the world. Critics blame you for lack of focus on court and the endorsement deals you sign with companies and distraction due to the media’s obsession with your looks. How difficult is it to keep a balance between ‘fame’ and ‘game’? Does this have something to do with you losing your form?

A. Thanks a lot. Well, it’s kind of silly to suggest that someone is thinking about their looks or some contract when they are on court. Believe me; nothing could be further from the truth. When I’m on court I am sweating, giving it my all, for victory. The off-court side of things has never affected my tennis — it’s totally separate. Your confidence is won and lost by results on the court— it has nothing to do with ‘fame’, as you mentioned.