Caroline Wozniacki, the Danish tennis player, finished in top place as WORLD NO. 1 PLAYER in the WTA for 2010. What a THRILL! Just breaking into her 20's, Caroline is determined, intelligent, gorgeous, fun and well-grounded... and has the whole world at her feet.
It is my honor to have Caroline Wozniacki on The Global Townhall to share some of the attitude that made her No. 1. I hope this interview will inspire you to find tremendous strength and determination in the moments in life that really count (be certain to watch Caroline's video at the bottom of this page to see what that REALLY means.)
Gabrielle Reilly: It seems that you have managed bite-size goals exceptionally well throughout your life. From wanting to beat your father and brother at tennis when you were 7, to wanting to be the best in Denmark, to aiming for the top ten in the world, to top five and then achieving world champion status!!! What is your philosophy on keeping new goals out in front of yourself?
Caroline Wozniacki: I believe in setting goals for myself that are achievable yet very challenging. I don't necessarily stress about the end result, I rather focus on the process itself, which I know will ultimately take me to achieving my dream. I like to take it step by step, and always set new challenges for myself, which keeps me wanting more.
Gabrielle Reilly: In the moments when you were brought down on the court by severe leg cramps, what was the "x" factor that made you mentally tough enough to get back up and go on to victory?
Caroline Wozniacki: For a second there, I must admit, I panicked but then I told myself that I worked way too hard for that victory and I cannot let a little cramp take it away from me. I think it was heart and willpower. I don't accept being defeated, and I always do everything in my power to prevent a loss.
Gabrielle Reilly: In the book "The Power" the author suggests visualizing what you want and then allowing your emotions to be the rocket fuel to achieve it. Do you visualize your goals (and perhaps the lifestyle/rewards that come with them) and then become very passionate about achieving it, or do you have some other method?
Caroline Wozniacki: Many athletes believe in the power of visualization because it empowers them. I'm no exception, but visualization takes a lot of practice and focus.
Gabrielle Reilly: Do you focus on other players who have been successful to show you a path to what is possible in life?
Caroline Wozniacki: Growing up I always had idols, and even today, there are certain players that I respect. However, I'm Caroline Wozniacki and I follow my own path.
Gabrielle Reilly: I was chatting on the phone with another favorite Danish celebrity, Mads Mikkelsen, recently. He is as lovely and down-to-earth as you are. Is there something about the Danish culture that helps you not get too caught up in the stardom?
Caroline Wozniacki: I'm very proud to be Danish, and it's an honor to represent Denmark in the world of tennis. People say that Denmark is one of the happiest nations and I must say, it's actually true.
The love I have been receiving from home has helped me through a lot of tough situations, and I always feel that although people would like to know more about me, they also respect my privacy.
Gabrielle Reilly: What does your weekly fitness routine look like?
Caroline Wozniacki: I spend hours on the tennis court, but I also do a lot of fitness because it's a key to me playing well. I like to do boxing because it improves my footwork, strength and stamina.
Gabrielle Reilly: Your skin looks so well exfoliated and glowing. What do you do to keep your skin so beautiful?
Caroline Wozniacki: Thank you. Because I spend so many hours in the sun, I must protect my skin and I feel like that all young girls should be taught to take care of their skins, because it will reward it in later years.
Gabrielle Reilly: Who is your favorite designer?
Caroline Wozniacki: I like Stella McCartney; her clothes are feminine and very comfortable.
Gabrielle Reilly: Me too, Stella McCartney's clothing line is beautiful! I love travelling the world with my Mum each year and am thrilled you get to take your Mum around the world with you too. What are your favorite things to do together?
Caroline Wozniacki: I'm very fortunate to be able to take my family with me. They have always been there for me, and having my Mum around is so much fun. We like shopping together, or just sit down and have a nice chat with a cup of foamy cappuccino. My Mum is very grounded and she helps me to take my mind off tennis.
Gabrielle Reilly: What is one of your favorite life philosophies that may inspire our readers?
Caroline Wozniacki: I have always lived my life according to one principle, never ever give up. It sounds cliché, but whoever quits, never wins.
Gabrielle Reilly: Thanks for not only the wonderful interview Caroline, but a reminder of what incredible intestinal fortitude really is, and for the blessings of the great light that you shine so brightly for others. Great homage.
