Laura Massaro
How do you train for a huge tournament like the Worlds?
It's hard to get it right but training wise I try to focus on the events prior and trying to get the run-up right. Then with 2/3 weeks to go the training gets cranked up and more specific. Sharper and harder with a lot of time on court. Then 3/4 days out I will taper down slightly to freshen up. Mainly it's about trying to stay mentally fresh and sharp too.
How/why did you get into squash?
I started playing because my parents played and I had fairly good hand-eye co-ordination. I am competitive so because I was pretty good it meant I wanted to play more and more and it really just progressed from there.
Do you have any pre-match superstitions?
Not really... I try if I can to not get myself into any superstitions because then you find yourself in trouble when you can't do it. Generally I love to eat at the same place and get myself into the same routine daily but that differs from event to event. I do have to have a coffee pre match though!
What is your most memorable match?
The World Championship final I won in 2014. I have never been more nervous in my life and am really proud that I managed to hold it together enough to take the title. A really good memory.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Roast dinner!
If you could change one rule in squash what would it be?
If you get hit off the back wall I don't think it should be a stroke to the hitter. Annoying!
Which city have you played in that you would like to return to for a holiday?
New York City. I love going back every year to play in the Tournament of Champions but it will be nice to go back when I stop playing so that I can enjoy all the great food and drink!
In a typical training block, how do you fuel your body?
Difficult to say really as it differs but I try to recover and eat according to my workload. Good carbs when I'm training hard and good protein recovery too. Sleep is huge as well. I am dairy-free so try to get good recovery in without going down the dairy route.
If you could go back in time and give your 10-year-old self some advice, what would it be?
Watch more professional squash and eat more chocolate because you will restrict it when you're older ... haha!
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