Sanddra, as a former tennis player, how did he manage to see the Italians in the Billie Jean King Cup?
We also had a dream in our time; therefore, it is a great joy especially for the women’s tennis movement which has had too much power for the last fifteen years. Apart from Sinner who is now number one in the world, for the last fifteen years I think that women’s tennis has kept our sport going in Italy and around the world.
She is considered, along with Raffaella Raggi, the best tennis player in Italy after the retirement of Lea Pericoli. What has changed compared to before?
We lived through three eras with stratospheric players and everything was a little different. Now the girls have an advantage, there are more facilities, because the Federation helps them much more, and many things have changed, but it is right that these facilities are also there, and what is more there are girls we are amazing. Jasmine is a girl of unique simplicity, she has never allowed herself to become too big, and she is an exquisite person with a wonderful coach, Renzo Furlan, who is lucky for her. He is a person beyond all limits. Sara Errani is also making history because, due to her age, after a significant decline, she had the strength to rise again and recover. There is nothing to teach them, only to learn from these players, especially nowadays when children have little desire to sacrifice themselves, to suffer, to fight.
You said before “now there is sin”: could this affect the centrality of women’s tennis? Is it also less talked about because of this?
Can be. Now we have a sinner who is number one in the world, but women are always in the background, even if they have made history. Raffaella and I were perhaps the first to start the movement and we did it in years when we were not much respected. In my opinion, despite the stratospheric results of women’s tennis over the last twenty years, we always remain a bit in the shadows, behind. OK, Sinner is number one in the world, the win was nice, but let’s start talking about the men right away.
How does the Billie Jean King Cup contribute to the visibility of female athletes in tennis?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Tennis Expert Sanddra
Editor: Welcome, Sanddra! It’s a pleasure to have you here. As a former tennis player, you’ve got a unique perspective on the current landscape of tennis, particularly in Italy. How did you feel when you witnessed the Italian team in the Billie Jean King Cup?
Sanddra: Thank you for having me! Watching the Italian team compete in the Billie Jean King Cup was an emotional experience for me. It’s not just about the matches; it’s about seeing the progress and growth of women’s tennis in Italy. We had our dreams when we played, and now it’s heartening to see these young athletes thrive on such a prestigious stage.
Editor: You mentioned the significance of women’s tennis in Italy. Could you elaborate on how it has shaped the sport over the years?
Sanddra: Absolutely! For the past fifteen years, women’s tennis has been the backbone of our tennis culture. Players like Flavia Pennetta and Francesca Schiavone have not only achieved individual success but have also inspired a whole generation of young girls to take up the sport. Without their contributions, I honestly believe the profile of tennis in Italy would be drastically different today.
Editor: That’s a profound observation. In your opinion, how does the current crop of female players compare to those who paved the way?
Sanddra: The current generation is incredibly talented and driven. They combine athleticism with a fierce competitiveness. While my generation had its own strengths, today’s players have access to better training facilities, nutrition, and mental coaching. All of this contributes to their performance on the world stage. However, I always feel a nostalgic connection to the players of the past who had to pave the way under different circumstances.
Editor: You’re also recognized as one of the best Italian tennis players after Lea Pericoli. What do you think has changed in the sport since your competitive days?
Sanddra: There have been significant changes in terms of visibility and support for female athletes. In my day, we fought for recognition. Now, with events like the Billie Jean King Cup receiving mainstream media coverage, women’s tennis is finally being celebrated. This visibility translates into better support and funding, which is crucial for the continuation and growth of the sport.
Editor: That’s encouraging to hear. From your perspective, what role does the Billie Jean King Cup play in promoting women’s tennis in Italy and globally?
Sanddra: The Billie Jean King Cup is monumental. It not only showcases the best of women’s tennis but also creates a sense of unity among players from different countries. Every match becomes a battle for national pride, which galvanizes fans. The emotional connection fans develop during these tournaments is powerful. It’s a platform that elevates women’s sports and elevates the stories of female athletes, shining a light on their achievements.
Editor: Looking forward, what are your hopes for the future of women’s tennis in Italy?
Sanddra: My hope is that we continue to foster young talent and provide them the opportunities to succeed on the global stage. I want to see Italy remain a competitive force in women’s tennis, not just for years to come but for decades. I aim for our athletes to inspire not only the next generation of tennis players but also young women everywhere, showing them that with hard work and passion, anything is possible.
Editor: Thank you so much for sharing your insights, Sanddra. Your passion for the sport is truly inspiring, and we’re excited to see how the future unfolds for women’s tennis in Italy!
Sanddra: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep cheering for our athletes and celebrating their journey!