Ever contemplated what life is like as a professional tennis player? We have - a lot - and we recently had the pleasure of connecting with Malene Helgo who told us all about it. Read on for a glimpse into her world.
Beyond the baseline
Meet Malene Helgo from Oslo, Norway. Her Instagram bio would have you believe that she merely chases yellow balls around the world, but that is obviously an undersell. A professional tennis player on the elite and gruelling WTA tour - with relentless travel a non negotiable - we asked Malene to let us in on her tips for staying balanced amidst the pursuit of titles.
Please introduce yourself.
I’m Malene Helgø and I’m 25 years old. I’m from Norway and live in the capital, Oslo. I’m a tennis player and have played professionally since I finished high school in 2018. As a professional tennis player I travel between 25-30 weeks per year to compete in tournaments around the world.
You travel a lot, do you have any in-flight rituals?
I’m always with my headset on to block out the noice. It makes the travel so much more comfortable. I also try to drink and eat properly to help my recovery. Last but not least it’s important for me to move and stretch regularly. Face mist is also really nice :)
Tell us something about you that is truly unique.
I’m a celiac haha. Only thing I could think of.
Where was the last place you travelled to, and what was your most memorable experience there?
The last place I travelled to was France. I played a tournament in Biarritz and Blois. The most memorable experience was the beautiful city center of Biarritz. The sea, big rocks, surfers, beautiful flowers and buildings.
How do you stay grounded, when your schedule is likely constantly changing?
I try to find joy in small things as I go, like meeting sweet people, call my family and friends. I’m also very used to not knowing what the next day brings. I think you become very flexible with this absurd lifestyle.
If you're not on the tennis court, where would we find you?
You’ll find me strolling around the city, checking out different shops. I love fashion and interior. Or spending time with friends and family. Or… on the couch, watching tv-shows, if I really need some alone time to recover.
What's one item in your carry-on or tennis bag that you never leave home without?
I’m never leaving home without a lip gloss and a headsets. I can’t stand having dry lips hehe and I love listening to podcasts and music.
Who or what inspires you?
My dad really inspires me. He’s so great at his job and he has some much knowledge that it shocks me sometimes. I get inspired by intelligent people who’s doing something extraordinary and doing it really well by working hard.
Finish this sentence 'I like to remind myself that...
That everything is going to be okay. That I’ve come a long way and that I’ve already achieved many things in life already. That if I constantly work hard I’m going to succeed with my goals eventually, but I have to remember to rest and recover as well, because I’m not getting there without a healthy balance.
10.What does escape mean to you?
Escape for me means a getaway from the normal hectic life. Taking some time away from everything to find mental balance. Being in the peaceful nature or just doing something different. And then to be able to start with a clean slate full of energy when I get back to work again.
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