A silent prayer

By Mike Hall, January 9, 2024

Here’s a New Year’s wish for a former US OPEN singles champion.

I close my eyes and see one of the best smiles on planet Earth after she claimed her OPEN title over good friend Madison Keys.

May that smile return once again in Melbourne because watching Sloane Stephens play in Brisbane was a tough ask.

Sure, she still strikes the ball beautifully and moves effortlessly, but it appears that the thrill is gone…that it’s all business and little joy and that the pilot light of her soul has dimmed considerably since that electric performance at Flushing Meadows.

Fingers are crossed that the light burns bright again next week because the depth of tennis now demands a spirit fueled effort married to racquet skills and footwork.

As a fellow teaching pro said this morning, “where’s the joy?”