Meaning: Gabriela Sabatini, an Argentine former professional tennis player, made this quote to illustrate her strategic approach during a crucial match against Mary Joe Fernandez in the semifinals of a tournament. Sabatini's words reflect her mindset and tactical shift during the match, providing insight into her competitive nature and ability to adapt her game to seize victory.

In this quote, Sabatini recounts her match against Mary Joe Fernandez, emphasizing Fernandez's initial lead in the first set and the close competition in the second set. Sabatini's acknowledgment of Fernandez's strong performance in the first set highlights her sportsmanship and respect for her opponent's abilities. Furthermore, her description of the second set as "very close" suggests the intense nature of the match and the challenge she faced in turning the tide in her favor.

The most striking aspect of Sabatini's quote is her mention of playing an aggressive game that surprised her opponent. This statement reveals Sabatini's strategic acumen and her willingness to take calculated risks to gain the upper hand in the match. By choosing to adopt a more aggressive playing style, Sabatini demonstrated her ability to assess the situation on the court and make tactical adjustments to disrupt her opponent's rhythm. This decision reflects her confidence in her skills and her belief in her ability to dictate the flow of the match.

Sabatini's reference to "surprising them" conveys her awareness of the impact her change in strategy had on her opponent, suggesting that Fernandez and her team may have been caught off guard by Sabatini's shift in approach. This element of surprise likely contributed to Sabatini's ability to gain momentum and ultimately secure the victory. It also underscores her capacity to outthink and outmaneuver her opponents, adding a psychological dimension to her playing style.

Overall, Sabatini's quote encapsulates the competitive dynamics of high-stakes tennis matches, showcasing the mental and strategic aspects of the sport. Her ability to reflect on her match with Fernandez and articulate the pivotal moments where she took control of the game demonstrates her astuteness as a player. Sabatini's words provide valuable insights into the mindset of a champion athlete, highlighting the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and the willingness to take bold actions to secure success on the tennis court.

In summary, Gabriela Sabatini's quote offers a compelling glimpse into the strategic and competitive mindset of a professional tennis player. Her recounting of the pivotal moments in her match against Mary Joe Fernandez sheds light on the tactical decisions and mental fortitude required to succeed at the highest level of the sport. Sabatini's ability to surprise her opponent with an aggressive playing style exemplifies her ability to seize control of a match and showcases her prowess as a strategic athlete.