SportsLine.com recently spoke with James. Here is what he had to say:

SportsLine: When did you realize that you were good enough to make tennis your career?

James Blake: It was my dream at 10, but I realized at 14 that it was improbable. I just thought I would be a good college player, but I started getting a lot better at 18. It was the next step.

SportsLine: What is the strongest part of your game right now?

James Blake: My forehand and my quickness.

SportsLine: What part of your game needs the most work?

James Blake: I would like to improve everything. My biggest weakness is experience. I was not prepared for these kinds of matches, because I never planned for this (a pro career).

SportsLine: What is your favorite thing about being on the court?

James Blake: I love competing. Just going out there and giving it your best for that day. The camaraderie among the guys is also great.

SportsLine: What is your least favorite thing about being a tennis player?

James Blake: The travel can get tough. Packing up and heading to the airport every week is difficult. You really miss your friends.

SportsLine: Who has had the biggest influence on your game?

James Blake: My coach, Brian Barker. I was a brat on the court and he helped me out as a person. He showed me how to act right on the court and helped me become a more likeable kid. Because of him I am a better person and player. He started coaching me when I was 11 or 12 years old and we have become great friends.

SportsLine: Who has been your favorite player to watch?

James Blake: Jim Courier because he worked so hard. He would not have made it if he didn't work as hard as he did. He also seemed like a guy who was a lot of fun. Today, I like Pat Rafter because he plays like me and he is a great guy.

SportsLine: Do you ever get discouraged with your game?

James Blake: Last year, when I made the jump from college, I did. I was losing a lot at the beginning.

SportsLine: How did you overcome that?

James Blake: My coach always looks to the bright side. Even when I know what he's going to say he makes me feel better.

SportsLine: What surface do you play best on?

James Blake: I like to play on indoor hard courts. You have to play indoor six months out of the year in Connecticut, so I have a lot of experience.

SportsLine: Who is the nicest player you've met on the tour?

James Blake: Patrick Rafter, and Todd Martin have been really great.

SportsLine: Have you ever been intimidated by an opponent?

James Blake: Not since I've turned pro because I get to practice with a lot of the guys I play against. The first time I hit with Mats Wilander (a neighbor and friend of his coach)in Connecticut I was pretty intimidated.

SportsLine: Does the prospect of playing anyone in particular intimidate you?

James Blake: Probably not, because I've practiced with Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi and played against Marat Safin in doubles. The main thing that separates No. 1 from No. 200 is confidence.

SportsLine: Do you feel like you lost any part of your childhood because of the demands of training and travel?

James Blake: There were a few parties I would have loved to have gone to but I couldn't. I always went straight from school to tennis. It was my choice and I definitely think it was worth the sacrifices. The tennis was more fun for me than anything else.

SportsLine: What would you like to pursue after you retire?

James Blake: Finish up school, I'm not really sure. Maybe go into sports marketing.

Future Game Archive