Manny King John
I attended Dalayna Hewitt’s tennis match at the US Open.
I
was impressed with her demeanour, and undeniable presence, it’s safe to say that this talented young lady from Cleveland, Ohio has a bright future on and off the court.
How old were you when you started to play? How did you get started?
I started when I was 8-years-old. My next door neighbour didn’t want to go to her first tennis lesson alone. She wanted a friend to go with her, and that was my introduction to tennis.
Both of your parents played basketball in college, why tennis and not basketball?
Basketball just wasn’t the right fit for me. I enjoyed it in the beginning, but after awhile it wasn’t fun, and that’s when tennis became my favourite sport!
What are your goals?
My goal is to become number one, as a professional player.
Who’s your favourite tennis player? Why?
My favourite tennis player would have to be Serena Williams because I love her overall court presence and her demeanour on the court.
If you could play anybody who would it be? Why?
I would love to play Serena. It would be such a fun match, and I would want to see how my game competes against one of the best players of all time!
Any superstitions or good luck charms?
Usually, during matches, I try not to step on the lines. Also, I have to bounce the ball a certain number of times before I serve.
What are the three things that are always in your tennis bag?
Headphones, good luck cross keychain, and my slides.
If you could win any Grand Slam, which one would it be?
I would love to win the Australian Open. I always wanted to go to Australia. It seems like a [great] place. The energy is cool.
What was it like playing at the US Open?
It was a great experience; It was amazing to be around all of the professional’s tennis players. Playing on the same courts as for them and realising that I could be there one day was surreal.
What is the best part of being a tennis player?
I get to travel to cool places all around the world and play my favourite sport!
Do you have a role model?
Serena Williams.
What is your favourite thing to do when you’re not playing tennis?
Sleep.
What’s your cheat meal?
French fries.
Now, here’s the quick pick part of our interview. I’ll throw out to things, and you’ll pick what’s best to you.
Flats or Heels? Heels.
Ponytail or High Bun? Ponytail.
Barbados or Hawaii? Barbados.
Hip-Hop or Pop? Hip-Hop.
Cleveland Browns or Cleveland Cavaliers? Cleveland Cavaliers.
This young lady seems to be very focused. I hope that she achieves her dream and that I will be around to hear about her !