Book - Open by Andre Agassi

Pressure is how you know everything is working, the doctor said. Soon the pain felt wonderful, almost sweet, because it was the kind that you can tell precedes relief. But maybe all pain is like that.

Tonight: I remind myself that it will require iron discipline to cope with these forces, and whatever else comes my way. Back pain, bad shots, foul weather, self loathing. It is a form of worry, this reminder, but also a meditation. One thing I have learned in twenty-nine years of playing tennis : Life will throw everything but the kitchen sink in your path, and then it will then throw the kitchen sink. It is your job to avoid the obstacles. If you let them stop you or distract you, you are not doing your job, and failing to do your job will cause regreats that paralyze you.