I've become more patient after embracing motherhood: Sania Mirza

Former Indian tennis star, Sania Mirza delved into the experiences that shaped her career and personal life, highlighting the impact of motherhood on her personality, particularly how it instilled patience in her previously impulsive nature.

Speaking about her retirement in a recent interview, she explained that the physical toll of three surgeries and motherhood did not allow her body to recover completely. 

"People see you reach finals, but they don't realise the immense effort it takes to get there," the renowned athlete said. 

On embracing criticism, Sania maintained, "Even within your family, you might not be liked by everyone. There are millions of people out there with different opinions."

When asked about the personal changes she has observed in the past decade, Sania said, I have become more patient, it happened definitely with age but also due to my kid. Because I think, when you become a mother there is no other option than being patient.”

The six-time Grand Slam champion expressed her satisfaction with developing more patience, revealing that she used to be more impulsive in the past. 

She asserted that her decision-making process has changed, as she now takes more time to think things through before acting.

Mirza confessed that her biggest fear is losing touch with reality saying that people in the spotlight like herself constantly hear praise but there are very few who tell the truth. 

“It is very important to remain in touch with reality,” she noted.

The former tennis icon emphasised that genuine connection should be prioritised over fame and money, while “they are a part of luxury. What is important is who is going to be there for you in your tough time.”

Speaking about her experiences with winning and losing in sports, Sania mentioned that these lessons translated to real life and taught her more than any book ever could.