Meaning: This quote by Guy Forget, a former professional tennis player and current tennis administrator, provides insight into the mental and emotional challenges faced by athletes who have transitioned from being active participants in their sport to taking on different roles, such as coaching or administrative positions. The quote reflects Forget's personal experience of feeling the stress and frustration of being on the sidelines, unable to physically engage in the game that he loves.

Guy Forget's career as a professional tennis player was marked by significant achievements, including reaching the world No. 4 ranking and winning numerous ATP tour titles. After retiring from professional competition, Forget continued to be involved in the sport, serving as the captain of the French Davis Cup team and holding various administrative roles within tennis organizations. Through his experiences as both a player and a team captain, Forget gained unique perspectives on the intense emotions and challenges that athletes face, particularly when they are no longer able to directly participate in their sport.

The quote suggests that Forget deeply understands the frustration and helplessness that can accompany the transition from being an active player to a spectator or a non-playing role within the sport. By using the metaphor of "living the doubles," Forget conveys the emotional investment and personal identification with the game that he experienced during his career. Doubles tennis requires teamwork, coordination, and trust between partners, and Forget's choice of words implies that he was fully immersed in the world of tennis, both as a player and later as a non-playing participant.

The phrase "which was very stressful" further emphasizes the emotional toll of being involved in the sport from a different perspective. Forget acknowledges that the experience of transitioning from player to non-player was not just a simple change in role but rather a source of significant stress and emotional strain. This candid admission provides a glimpse into the internal struggle that athletes may face when they are no longer able to actively participate in the sport that has been central to their lives.

The imagery of "sitting down in a chair experiencing a match without being able to hold a racquet in your hands" vividly captures the sense of powerlessness and frustration that Forget experienced. As a former player accustomed to the physical and mental demands of competitive tennis, he found himself in a new position, observing the game from the sidelines without the ability to directly influence the outcome. This imagery conveys a profound sense of longing and a desire to be back in the thick of the action, contributing and competing at the highest level.

Overall, Guy Forget's quote provides a poignant reminder of the complex emotions and challenges that athletes face when they undergo transitions in their careers. It offers valuable insight into the psychological impact of moving from active participation to a non-playing role within the sport, highlighting the deep emotional connection that individuals like Forget have with their athletic pursuits. Through his words, Forget not only shares his personal experience but also shines a light on the broader themes of identity, purpose, and resilience that are integral to the lives of athletes both during and after their competitive careers.