She says her favorite surface is grass. But with Daniela Hantuchova, you’re never quite sure if she’s talking about the court or the course. Hantuchova, who knocked Serena Williams out of this year’s Australian Open, is also a big-time golfer, hitting the links all around the world. She took up the sport at the Indian Wells in 2002, which she won, and hasn’t put down her clubs since.
Did you teach yourself golf or take lessons?
“I’m completely self-taught. I’ve never taken a lesson. I like to learn from watching Tiger Woods.”
What’s your favorite club?
“My 9-iron. It’s the first club I ever used, and I hit a hole-in-one with it in Perth, Australia, during the Hopman Cup in 2003. It was a short island green. I also love playing out of the sand.”
Least favorite club?
“I hate long irons and fairway woods. My 3-iron is probably my worst club.”
Many tennis pros play golf. Scott Draper, the former ATP player, is now pursuing a pro-golf career. Why do tennis players make such good golfers?
“We have good feel for the ball and great hand-eye coordination. Plus, the golf swing is a natural one. And the ball isn’t moving, which makes it easier than tennis.”
What do you enjoy about the sport?
“It’s fun and relaxing being in nature. It’s a great place to hide from the stress of playing tennis, and it’s not a tiring hobby so you don’t have to worry about it taking away from your tennis the next day.”
What brand of golf clubs do you use?
“Nike and Yonex.”
Who are your favorite pro golfers?
“Ernie Els because he has the best swing, and Tiger Woods because of his amazing powers of concentration and mental toughness.”
If Tiger played tennis, would he be any good?
“Tennis is way harder, more physically demanding. But he’d have touch and concentration, so that would be a good start.”