Home Page About Me
Interviews Galleries Quotes

Acing Andy Roddick
August 29, 2005

 


Introduction:

Trying to track down one of the best tennis players in the world can be a bit of a challenge. This year Andy was one of the top seeds at the U.S. Open. In 2003 at the age of 21, Andy won the U.S. Open and was number one in the world. Andy’s 2005 U.S. Open performance was very disappointing. Andy lost in the first round against Gilles Muller, ranked 59 th in the world. There is a message though; at any given time, even the best may not succeed as planned. Andy did not play up to his full potential that day.

I was at the U.S. Open with my family on Monday,  the first day of the Open. Andy’s match was on Tuesday. I was lucky to catch up with Andy for a few questions.

"If you see someone out there smiling and having a good time, they’re probably getting the most out of what they got"- Andy Roddick

 

Spencer:

Andy, you have become a role model for tens of thousands of young people.  What do you say to kids who find it difficult to play as well as you?

 

Mr. Roddick:

I’ve been lucky enough to play on the high level.  But, the most important thing is having fun.  If the fun part is out of it, it’s impossible to play well.  If you see someone out there smiling and having a good time, they’re probably getting the most out of what they got.

 

Spencer:

Your Foundation has raised a lot of money for disadvantaged children.  You obviously believe in giving to others.  Why is giving so important to you?

 

Mr. Roddick:

I feel extremely blessed with the life I’ve been able to lead.  A lot of people and kids aren’t as lucky as I’ve been.  One of the best things about fame is to be able to send a message out and so I’ve been able to raise some money for kids and selfishly I get more out of it than they do.  It really fulfills me and makes me happy.