When I was younger, I was a robot. Wind her up and she plays tennis.

There were times when deep down inside I wanted to win so badly I could actually will it to happen. I think most of my career has been based on desire.

When I was younger, I was a robot. Wind her up and she plays tennis.

My first U.S. Open I think was just very special for me because that was sort of the beginning of what was a 'Cinderella' story for me.

The difference is almost all mental. The top players just hate to lose. I think that's the difference. A champion hates to lose even more than she loves to win.

When I was in grade school and we had to write papers about what we wanted to be when we grew up, I wanted to be a social worker or a missionary or a teacher... Then I got involved with tennis, and everything was just me, me, me. I was totally selfish and thought about myself and nobody else, because if you let up for one minute, someone was going to come along and beat you. I really wouldn't let anyone or any slice of happiness enter... I didn't like the characteristics that it took to become a champion.

Cats are peaceful and tranquil - they bring calmness with their serene personalities.