Have you ever wondered what goes on in the mind of a tennis legend who simultaneously loved and hated the sport? In this episode of 'Performers,' join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young as they explore the riveting autobiography of tennis legend Andre Agassi, “Open.”

Understanding the psychological complexities of top athletes like Andre Agassi can provide invaluable insights into overcoming our own personal and professional challenges. Join sport psychology experts Dr. Duncan Simpson and Dr. Greg Young This episode addresses the delicate balance of managing success and personal identity, which resonates with anyone striving to maintain their authenticity in high-pressure environments.

In this episode of Performers, you will:

• Gain an understanding of how early experiences shape our career paths and personal growth.

• Learn strategies for managing mental health and fear, drawn from the firsthand experiences of a world-class athlete.

• Discover the transformative power of self-reflection and authenticity in achieving lasting success.

Dive into the captivating world of Andre Agassi by listening to this episode of "Performers" and find out how the challenges of a tennis legend can illuminate the path to personal authenticity and success.

Socials

⁠⁠X -⁠@sportpsychdunc⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠ - @performerspod⁠⁠

⁠YouTube⁠

⁠TikTok⁠

⁠⁠⁠Linkedin- Duncan⁠ Simpson⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Linkedin - Greg Young⁠⁠

Support the show

Resources

⁠Founders Podcast⁠ by David Senra

Mental Health Resources

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Andre Agassi's Identity

04:44 The Mental Game and Self-Talk in Tennis

12:13 The Influence of Parents and Coaches

25:08 Pressure and Autonomy in Youth Sports

33:32 Transitioning to the Bollettieri Tennis Academy

41:23 Identity and Rebellion

42:23 Becoming a Professional Tennis Player

45:14 Playing Down to Your Opponent's Level

45:43 The Psychology of Playing Against Lesser Opponents

48:27 Identity and Image

52:17 The Importance of a Supportive Team

54:10 The Role of a Mentor

57:34 The Need to Achieve vs. the Need to Avoid Failure

58:03 Playing to Win vs. Playing Not to Lose

01:01:26 The Power of Clear Goals and Clarity of Purpose

01:02:46 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People

01:05:49 Embracing Imperfection and Avoiding Perfectionism

01:12:22 The Journey of Rebirth and Overcoming Challenges

01:21:23 Avoiding Self-Hatred and Breaking Rules Without Purpose

01:22:44 Avoiding Underestimating Opponents and Holding onto Losses

01:24:28 Avoiding Neglecting Physical Conditioning and Negative Self-Talk

01:30:21 Avoiding Avoidance and Living Through Others

01:31:17 Avoiding Isolation and Seeking Diverse Relationships