Another Business Tip for the Emerging Pro Tennis Player
Posted in on January 10, 2012
This is part of a new series of weekly tips for the ATP or WTA touring pro who shows potential to be an emerging tennis star, but seems stuck in the rankings (50-150) and has had difficulty gaining traction with fans, sponsors, advertisers, and other income-producing activities off court.
Tip #2: Plan your schedule carefully to reduce risk of injury. Keeping yourself healthy is perhaps the most important thing you can do as a self-employed, professional athlete to maximize your earnings and the length of your career. Build enough breaks into your schedule to give your mind and body a break throughout the year. Exhibitions, appearances, and other income-producing, off-court opportunities can keep you occupied (and well paid), but even still, you can extend your playing career by taking time away from tennis altogether to enjoy other hobbies, volunteer for your favorite nonprofit organization, further your education, etc. Venus and Serena Williams, Kim Clijsters, and Andre Agassi are all great examples of players who took extended periods of time away from the tour (in some cases voluntarily and in other cases due to factors beyond their control) and returned to the top of the game. Maximize your potential, protect your body, and extend your pro career through careful scheduling.