Ask John
Personal
First just want to congratulate you on all you success to date. I would say that in many ways I am trying to emulate your game. I am 6’3’’ 185pds going on 48 years young, work hard on my serve and getting to net. I have observed a big difference between younger and older players is there ability to move quickly around the court. I was wondering if there are any drills you swear by in enabling you to be so quick around the court. Best of luck in your continued success.
Submitted by Mitch Simril, Greensboro NC
Thank You! I work extremely hard on all aspects of my game but especially on my footwork. Footwork is in my opinion one of the most important aspects of the game of tennis. Usually when I make an unforced error, footwork is almost always partly to blame. With you being 6'3" your at an advantage since your wingspan can cover more of the court than most of your shorter opponents. Since I am around 6'9" I am at a huge advantage in being able to do so as well. I do alot of things that improve my footwork: I jump rope alot and constantly remind myself during practice and matches to always stay on my toes! But at the sametime I mix up my game alot, you don't want your opponent knowing that you are serving and volleying on everypoint. You need to always keep your opponent guessing. I can give you some specific drills you can work on but I need to know: What level of player you are? Do you play singles or doubles or both? Just write me back and I can come up with some good drills you can work on. Thanks for submitting your question Mitch! I see that you are from Greensboro, where do you play at in Gboro?
I saw where you signed an Agreement to be represented by SFX, did any of the other Companies (IMG or OCtagon) come to you about signing with them? Did you ever speak with Octagon etcc..? How/Why did you pick SFX? HAve they signed you to any deals that can make you some money off the court? GO DOGS! Scott
Submitted by Scott, Atlanta
I did sign with SFX immediately after college because I believe they had the most to offer. I do not regret signing with them, I have been very pleased and fortunate to be represented by SFX. My agent Sam Duvall has done an excellent job and he has exceeded my expectations. SFX has signed me plenty of off court deals. Go Dogs!
Hey John, I am a big fan of yours and i started to watch you play tennis last summer. Here is my question...I want to know what is your favorite restaurant? I mean who gets asked that this days. It may sound weird but really... and what do you normally get from there? Thanks.
Submitted by Katlyn Clark, Elizabeth City, North Carolina
That's not a weird question. My favorite restaurant would have to be at my house in Greensboro where my mom cooks up the best meals. Besides that there is a restaurant in Greensboro called Pita Delite that I love to go to and I always get a ham and cheese pita. I am a big fan of Lexington, NC style BBQ as well. Thanks for your question
Are you going to be playing in any tournaments in Houston this year? I am a HUGE fan and would love to come see you play if you are in my home town! Take care and good luck this year! -Laura Strawn
Submitted by Laura Strawn, Houston, Texas
Laura, I am going to be in Houston for the U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship, which starts on April 14. I will be arriving in Houston late on Saturday April 12. I am doing a Red Cross Charity event with Monica Seles on Friday April 11 and Saturday April 12 and as soon as the event ends on saturday I am hopping on a flight to Houston. I have heard great things about this tournament, I am really looking forward to it. Hope to see u there for my matches! Make sure you bring a good cheering section to my matches. Take care!
Hey John, I know all the girls wanna know. What makes someone stand out in your mind? What are your biggest turn ons and offs?
Submitted by Courtney, Ohio
wow, that's a tough question: I don't exactly have a specific "type" or look when it comes to girls. This might sound a little "cliche" but a good smile and an outgoing personality is what I look for most in girls. Arrogance is by far my biggest turn off. I don't like girls that think and act as if they are better than everyone else.
Hi John,i'm a big fan of tennis,and i discover you this summer at the US Open.So this is my question:Can you tell me if you have a girlfriend and what's your favourite WTA Player?
Submitted by Manal, Marseille
I do not currently have a girlfriend. It's so hard to maintain a healthy relationship since I am constantly traveling. The last serious girlfriend I had was during my college years at Georgia. But I am always looking for that special someone, so yes I am available. I don't really have a favorite WTA player.
