Miss Manners of Tennis : Gabriela Sabatini Is on a Quest to Show That Nice Women Don’t Necessarily Have to Finish Last

Gabriela Sabatini, an Argentine tennis player consistently ranked in the top 10 since 1986, is renowned for her genuine niceness and an image that combines glamour with approachability. However, her reputation is not synonymous with a fierce competitive spirit or overwhelming ambition. Sabatini’s temperament, marked by politeness and courtesy, begs the question: Can being too nice hinder a career in a cutthroat industry like professional tennis, which often demands relentless determination?

Sabatini, aged 25, will be participating in the Acura Classic, set to commence at Manhattan Country Club in Manhattan Beach. From a distance, her ten-year career seems impressive, but it’s worth noting that she has only won one Grand Slam event, the 1990 U.S. Open, and recently ended a 2 1/2-year drought without a tournament victory. Critics argue that she hasn’t fulfilled her immense potential, which leads to the question of whether her temperament has played a role in her career trajectory.

Her coach, Juan Nunez, acknowledges her great talent but sighs when discussing her personality. He believes that her niceness might have hindered her career, yet he emphasizes the importance of being a good human being in the long run. This dilemma is quite rare in professional sports, where the drive to win often outweighs other considerations.

In addition to her tennis prowess, Sabatini is also known for her marketable image. Her appeal extends beyond the Spanish-speaking world, and she has been incredibly successful in the world of endorsements. In 1994, Forbes reported that Sabatini earned a remarkable $4 million from endorsements alone. Her ability to balance her on-court performance with her off-court appeal is a testament to her unique position in the world of professional sports.

Beyond her achievements in tennis and endorsements, Sabatini’s warm personality extends to her philanthropic endeavors. She actively supports various charitable causes, particularly those aimed at helping children in need. Her kindness is not limited to her professional life; it’s deeply ingrained in her character.

While Sabatini’s warm personality may have softened the criticism during her career slumps, she eventually found a way to rediscover her passion for the game. A turning point came in a match against Martina Navratilova, which she won. It was a significant moment that not only rejuvenated her career but also marked a personal transformation.

Today, Gabriela Sabatini represents the fine balance between athletic prowess and kindness. Her journey through professional tennis demonstrates that one can be nice and still achieve success in a competitive and often ruthless field. Her story serves as a reminder that genuine kindness can coexist with a fierce drive to succeed. Sabatini has carved a unique path in the world of tennis, and her legacy extends beyond her victories on the court.