In conversation with the 2019 US Open Champion, Mississauga’s Bianca Andreescu, the first Canadian to win a Grand Slam singles title.

1. Describe your initial emotions when you won the 2019 US Open.

It’s really tough to put into words my emotions after that win. It took a couple of days to fully wrap my head around what happened and honestly, I am just blown away. I remember thinking about all of the injuries that I had to work through to get to this point and never thought it would happen this quick! They journey was worth it and I am truly thankful and blessed.

2. How have you mentally adjusted to becoming a world-famous athlete?

It has definitely been different, but I’ve tried my best to stay grounded. This is really only the beginning for me and, I want to remain focused on my goal of eventually becoming the #1 tennis player in the world. I do my best to eliminate outside distractions when I am training and the days leading up to a match; it’s really important to stay as focused as possible. But, the love and support I have felt recently definitely motivates me to work harder too.

Billie Jean King once said “Pressure is a privilege” and it’s a quote that has really stuck with me through everything and something that I remind myself of every day.

3. During your rise to success, what's been a constant in your life?

My family. My parents have been with me since the beginning and have sacrificed so much for me to get to this point today. It makes me so happy to experience all of this with them.

4. What keeps you grounded on a daily basis?

My family and a strong support system around me.

5. What four things can you not live without?

My dog Coco, family/friends, music, and peanut butter.

6. What was the mental toll your back injury took on you?

It was really difficult but I also learned a lot from it and am stronger because of it. Mentally, I had to learn to adjust to the situation and stay focused and continue to remind myself that I will bounce back. I couldn’t wait for that day.

7. If you were to retire today, what would you want to be remembered by?

Making a difference and inspiring the next generation of athletes. I have received a lot of messages from fans about how they or even their kids are not picking up tennis racquets and are playing because of what they’ve seen me do. It’s humbling but also really inspiring to me too.

8. If you were to put a percentage value on how meditation contributes to your success, what would that number be and why?

It’s hard to put a number on it because tennis is such a mental game but, I find it to really be equal parts.

9. What succinct advice would you give to your generation regarding becoming successful?

Keep pushing and working hard towards your goals and don’t give up. My Mom always tells me, “You have to dream big to get back” and it’s so true.

10. What keeps you motivated personally and professionally?

Professionally, I stay motivated by continuing to set goals and to work really hard towards them. This is just the beginning for me and there is so much more I want to do on the court. Personally, I’m motivated by wanting to make a difference in the world to use my platform and my voice for so much more than just tennis.

11. Fill in the blank: I will retire when ________

I feel satisfied with what I have accomplished in my career and when I stop enjoying the process and the opportunity that playing tennis offers me.