With 21 Grand Slams, world champion tennis player Serena Williams is top of her game. Here she talks to Good Health Choices about what has inspired her and how the support of her family – and a good bra – has been essential to her success.
**Q Who is your sporting role model and who is your life role model?
A** Venus. She has inspired me both on and off the court. Having her alongside me on the Tour is amazing. Family is everything to me – my parents have always been and always will be my biggest supporters and have helped shape my incredible life.
**Q What do you want your legacy to be 50 years from now?
A** Nothing is impossible through hard work and determination.
**Q If you could give your 13-year-old self advice, what would you say?
A** Have faith, have courage and be true to yourself. Nothing comes without an extraordinary effort and everyone can be extraordinary in their own way.
**Q What’s your pre-match mantra?
A** Win.
**Q How do you protect yourself from physical and mental burnout?
A** You have to take time out for yourself and choose training schedules that suit your personality and keep you motivated. I love music and try to incorporate dance into my routines. It’s also incredibly important to surround myself with people who understand me.
**Q What goal do you still want to achieve?
A** Every year is different. I hold the record for the most wins of any active player, male or female, but it would be amazing if I could extend that lead. I want all young women and men to know that nothing is impossible.
**Q What makes you feel confident?
A** Having a strong, healthy mind and body is everything. The other ingredient I need is support from my coaching team, my family and friends.
**Q How do you pick yourself up after a tough day?
A** I go over what didn’t go my way and figure out what I could have done differently, then put a plan in place with my team to make the changes I need to. Change is a constant, but having faith in my ability, and making active choices to improve every day, ensures I stay positive and look forward to the next challenge.
**Q What is your daily training regime?
A** My typical day consists of two to three hours on the court, with some extra time in the gym. Dance is one of my other passions and it’s one of my favourite ways to limber up. Dancing is creative, raises my heart rate and it’s fun. Life is short – make the most of it!
**Q Why did you choose to be an ambassador for Berlei?
A** I’ve loved Berlei long before we joined forces. My mum first discovered the brand in Myer on a trip to Australia almost 10 years ago and I’ve been wearing their sports bras ever since. No other sports bra compares, as Berlei bras reduce bounce by up to 60 per cent, which is important for me as an athlete.
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