In this insightful conversation with professional tennis player Filip, we explore the relentless demands of the sport, the mental strategies required to handle setbacks, and the importance of preparation. Filip shares how he regulates adrenaline to perform at his best, the role of mindfulness in staying focused, and his meticulous approach to journaling, both for self-improvement and analysing opponents. His dedication to reflective practice and adaptability offers valuable lessons on resilience, preparation, and maintaining a competitive edge in the high-pressure world of professional tennis.

In this chat, ladies professional golfer Keely Chiericato shares her insights on the mental and emotional challenges of the game. She discusses the importance of staying present, using visualisation techniques, and training under pressure to prepare for high-stakes situations. Keely also reflects on the loneliness of tour life and how she balances golf with personal well-being. The importance of staying connected with friends and family, exploring new places, and knowing when to step away from the game. With a focus on preparation, resilience, and learning from mistakes, she emphasises that golf isn’t about perfection, it’s about adapting, staying grounded, and trusting the process.

Don Armand’s journey beyond rugby, highlighting his deep interest in human behaviour and personal development. While his career featured highs and lows typical of professional sports, his true focus was on mindset, resilience, and making a broader impact.

Don developed The Gaming Athlete to support mental health, inspired by a tragic story of a young boy’s suicide. He also founded Identity Human, an initiative helping individuals and businesses move beyond rigid professional identities. His psychology background and belief in personal growth enabled him to transition smoothly beyond rugby, unlike many athletes who struggle with identity post-retirement.

Key themes in Don’s approach include the importance of preparation over superstition, confidence built through repetition, and the power of adaptability. While injuries challenged his career, they also led him to reflect on life beyond sport. Ultimately, his philosophy emphasises continuous learning, self-improvement, and lifting others up by first working on oneself.

Jack Green’s story reveals the often-overlooked mental and emotional challenges of elite sports. In an honest conversation, he discussed the toll of burnout, the pressure-driven culture of athletics, and the stigma surrounding mental health. Despite facing two major mental health crises, including working with a psychiatrist for six-week, Jack overcame these struggles by confronting outdated norms and seeking balance. As a coach and mental health advocate, he champions environments that prioritise athletes’ well-being alongside performance. Through his innovative work, public speaking, and coaching, Jack redefines success as thriving both as a person and a performer.

Will has faced significant challenges with remarkable grace and determination.

In this blog, we delve into his inspiring story, exploring how he overcame physical and emotional hurdles with the support of his loved ones and by embracing distractions beyond the game. Will’s honesty shines as he discusses the toll of injuries, the confidence-shaking impact of alopecia, and the strategies that have helped him cope, such as mindfulness, journaling, and visualisation techniques.

By stepping away from social media’s noise and setting clear goals, such as playing in a World Cup with Ireland, Will exemplifies the power of a focused and positive mindset. His story is a reminder that success is as much about mental strength as it is about skill, offering lessons for athletes and non-athletes alike.

In my recent interview with professional cricketer Daniel Bell-Drummond, we explored the vital role of mental resilience in cricket. Daniel shared his journey of balancing talent with the pressures of competing in various formats. He emphasised the importance of adapting one's mindset, the value of a strong support system, and staying grounded amidst external expectations. His insights highlight that success in cricket—and in life—goes beyond statistics; it lies in the passion and mental strength that drive performance.

Join me on a journey into the minds of professional athletes as I explore their experiences, challenges, and the mental resilience required for success. In this blog, I’ll share insightful interviews that delve into the pressures of competition, personal sacrifices, and the realities of life as a professional sports person. Together, we’ll uncover the truth behind their journeys and what it really means to excel in the world of sports.