Top Tennis Player Sara Abouzeid on The Mindset of an Athlete

BY ARIANA TAVAKKOLI

Throughout any athletic career, there will be wins and losses. However, it’s important to not only celebrate the wins but focus on the losses and how we can overcome them. After every match, it’s key to reset and reflect. 

Injuries or fixed mindsets can be challenging, but one of the best ways to work through these challenges is to have people who support you. Whether that be a parent or a friend, having somebody who you can depend on is important. 

Sara Abouzeid is a freshman at the Sidwell Friends School, a member of the varsity tennis team, and a five star college recruit. She was born and raised in Dubai and began playing tennis at the age of 5, and recently won DCSAA States. 

Abouzeid at the 2024 DCSAA girls' singles. The Washington Post

Even as a top tennis player, she has had to work through challenges. She recently received surgery on her wrist, a struggle to recover from but made easier with the help of her coaches and family.

She also mentioned how encouraging her team at Sidwell is: “They are very supportive of my tennis career. I am very good friends with all of them, and we have a great relationship!”

But still make sure to focus on your wins. Win or lose, what matters most is that you try and feel your best. Abouzeid told me her favorite part of tennis is “the feeling when I play well. Regardless if I win or lose, it is amazing to see that all of the work that I am putting in is showing in my performance.”

Abouzeid is truly inspiring as a female athlete who’s been able to overcome challenges,  achieve significant accomplishments, and play her best no matter what. A piece of advice she offers: “I would suggest that even though sometimes you might have challenges, it is important to face them and look at the positive side of things. If we dwell on the negatives, we will never improve. It is always important to look on the bright side of things.”