ELITE TENNIS / Q&A
In 2012 Robin Haase achieved a singles career high of No. 33. Over the following years, injuries coupled with loss of confidence have led him on a journey which saw him briefly fall out of the top 100. Haase has teamed up with mentalist coach Raymond Knaap and the results are paying off nicely. This year the Dutch no. 1, has defeated Ferrer twice (Auckland and Halle), Goffin twice (Rotterdam and Gstaad), Berdych (Dubai), Thiem (Halle), and Dimitrov (Montreal).
What is different about you this year when compared to 2012?
RH: Simply, I am mentally more calm. I have rediscovered my game. When I came on the tour in 2008 and 2009, I had a sense of belief that I could beat anyone. Which led to my highest ranking in 2012. Injuries are a part of professional sport but after my knee surgery I lost my belief. Today, I have less aches and pains which gives me the confidence that I can physically move and hit the ball the way I know that I can. And now that I am working with Raymond, I have a mental confidence which just adds to the overall package. The wins against the top players like Thiem, Dimitrov, Berdych, and Goffin are important in rebuilding the psyche.
How exactly does Raymond help you with the mental aspect? RH: On court yes, we work on the mental side. Whether certain mental skills or playing points with an objective other than just winning. But I have to say that we spend much more time off the court over dinner or long walks in the city where we talk about mental aspects of tennis. All of that affects the way I perform inside the court. I have this belief that I am well prepared on the mental game. You have spoken that you have learned a lot how about experience…
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