In 1985, Hana Mandlikova won a US Open singles championship – on her third try. In 1980, she lost to Chris Evert. In 1982, Evert beat her again. But three years later, she overtook the two-time defending champion Martina Navratilova, 7-6, 1-6, 7-6, in an epic 2-hour, 14-minute match.
The 55-year-old Czech is competing in the US Open Champions Invitational with Marion Bartoli of France. But Mandlikova had another personal interest in this year's tournament.
USOpen.org: You're a mom now. Are your children playing tennis?
Hana Mandlikova: I have twins, a boy and a girl, they just turned 16. They're both playing, yes.
USOpen.org: Will we see them at US Open juniors tournament? Are they at that level yet?
Mandlikova: Elli played [here] this year. She lost in the second round of [junior girls' singles] qualies [and in the first round of junior girls' doubles]. With the boys, it's MUCH tougher, so it's gonna take a while.
USOpen.org: Do your kids have the same strengths as you as a player? How would you describe their games?
Mandlikova: Mark's more of a serve-and volleyer than Elli. Elli can play volleys, too, but she doesn't come in that much. But they both have passion for it, and that's the most important thing. They love it.
USOpen.org: You retired in 1990 as age 28. Was it a difficult decision?
Mandlikova: No, it wasn't. You know, I was burned out mentally. I just couldn't go on anymore. I had enough. I had so many injuries. They take toll on you, and at the end of my career, I had to fight back all the time. I just couldn't. When I made the decision to retire, it was like stones came off my back, I was so happy. I never regret it. I never regretted it.
USOpen.org: What are the most indelible memories from your 1985 US Open win?
Mandlikova: Ohhh, it's the best! That's the best! It's the best tournament I ever won. It's my favorite tournament as well, '85, when I beat Martina in the finals. It was a very exciting finals. I will never forget that kind of feeling.
USOpen.org: How would you describe "that kind of feeling?"
Mandlikova: It's hard to describe it. You have to live it!
