Staff Writer
Nate
Walroth
his week we were joined by former top 50 American Lauren Davis (73rd currently) via zoom on the Pure Tennis Blog. The Cleveland native discussed her newfound passion(s), her training regiment, goals for 2021 & more!
Nate Walroth: What was the thought process behind moving to Florida to train? Was it hard to leave home?
Lauren Davis: I felt like I had hit a plateau in Cleveland with the training. I knew Florida was the place I needed to be if I wanted to expose myself to the resources (academy access), better competition...and more intense training. I realized it was necessary to reach my full potential...so it made it easier.
NW: If you had gone to college, what would you have studied?
LD: As I’ve gotten older...I’ve realized my passions and hobbies all kind of align with health and wellness. I love nutrition. If I went to college, I would’ve likely been in that field. Being a health coach of some sort. I’m actually enrolled in a health and nutrition class currently.
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NW: How has your training or workouts changed from your early days on tour?
LD: In the beginning of my career I would train on court for 4 hour a day. Two hours in the morning...two in the afternoon...and then an hour of conditioning. But things have changed. I’ve been playing tennis for fifteen years (WTA Tour debut 2011) and I’ve realized I don’t need that much volume. I also began doing things I enjoy like CrossFit. On a relaxed day, maybe we’ll go paddleboarding or to a yoga class. I prefer going to parks and exercising outside in nature rather than a gym. Rollerblading and biking too!
NW: Do you have any routines or match superstitions?
LD: Hmm. Before every serve, I bounce the ball between my legs. I’ve done it since I was a kid. I played basketball growing up, so it just became a thing then. I just never stopped (laughs).
NW: Which major or country would you recommend for fans looking to travel? Australia has been on my bucket list.
LD: Australia! They have the best fans. They’re just fun and engaging.... it’s a lively atmosphere. Australia and New Zealand are the two places I enjoy most on the calendar. I always recommend people make that trip when they ask what countries they should visit. The food is awesome. They’re very health conscious there. Plus, the beach! Australia and New Zealand are close...so you might as well hit both (laughs).
NW: Goals for 2021?
LD: I want to make a second week. I feel like it’s a little overdue for me. The women’s draw is wide open, as you saw in the French...anyone can make the quarters or semis of a slam. I want to do the same.
NW: What have you been working on to achieve that breakthrough? Is there a focal point?
LD: I’ve been working on everything. Making the forehand a bigger weapon. Dictating with it. Also, using a lot of different shots...like going heavy and then mixing in a slice or drop shot. Girls like one-dimensional games. Normally the flat ball. So, it’s important to have variety.
I want to make a second week. I feel like it’s a little overdue for me. The women’s draw is wide open, as you saw in the French...anyone can make the quarters or semis of a slam. I want to do the same.
-Lauren Davis, on her goals for 2021.
