Tamara Zidansek:
What were some of the emotions running through your mind during the match in Bengaluru?
It was tough, I feel like we had one of the toughest set-ups because we played The Netherlands who are the favourites. It was a long day and then, we came out against the home team which is always difficult. We had no days off, so it was hard to stay focused, but I’m really happy that I managed to do it.
You’ve got a reputation of having great composure. How do you cultivate mental strength, especially with the pressure that comes with playing at the international level?
I’ve had ups and downs in my career where I wasn’t able to do that. But I’ve been able to by just focusing on myself, knowing that losing a tennis match doesn’t mean everything at the end of the day, trying to separate tennis and my personal life and staying true to myself.
What does playing in the Billie Jean King Cup mean to you personally, given the history, the legacy of the tournament?
We’ve had so much fun in our competitions, and we’ve done amazing things for our country. It’s always fun to have those two or three weeks during the year where a team comes together because it’s a little different from what a player experiences on tour when travelling by themselves – it’s a little more fun, relaxed, there’s company, so it’s always nice.
During your stay in Bengaluru, have you been able to try out any local delicacies here?
No, we’re trying to stay really careful with that. But we do have a day off so we’re going to try and see some things and look around Bengaluru.
What’s one unconventional training habit you swear by, but most people wouldn’t have guessed about you?
I used to hate running, but now I love it. I like to run and do intervals; I don’t think people like that, but I enjoy it!
What’s the next big goal that motivates you?
Trying to develop as a person through tennis, through the challenges that tennis brings. It’s just managing your emotions day in, day out and the expectations that come with tennis.