The tennis is incredible at the Barclays ATP World Tour Finals. The Top 8 players in the world. Thousands of screaming, passionate fans. The ideal way to end a season on the ATP World Tour.
But it's not everything for the players in London. To stay fresh, we have to have a life outside of The O2 as well.
I'm lucky that I have an adventurous team around me, including my coach Jonas Bjorkman, who also enjoy taking in the sites of a city. For instance, earlier during our stay here, we visited the Prince of Wales Theatre and saw the “Book of Mormon”. I always love a good show, and a good friend of Jonas' had recommended the musical, so we took his advice.
We were glad we did. It was great. We laughed, immersed our minds in something else and enjoyed some good, quality time with friends. What can be better?
Throughout my 11-year career, I've learned that you cannot be all tennis, all the time. For one, the days start to look awfully alike. You go to the site and practise or play. You get something to eat. You head back to the hotel.
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So you have to have a balance, a diversion. That's why I always try to find time to explore the cities we visit during the season. Some days it doesn't work out. I might have a late, exhausting match, and although I had wanted to visit that nice restaurant in the heart of the city, I'll try to go another night.
I'm always glad, though, when I can sneak out and visit a good coffee shop or a fun establishment. I'm not picky, either: A walk in the park works, too.
That's why I've seen the “Phantom Of The Opera” and loved the “The Lord of The Rings” movies. That's also why, a few years ago, when my team and I were in New York for the US Open, we headed to Broadway and took in my all-time favourite show, “The Lion King”. Its impressive production. Its talented cast. Its uplifting message. That play, like all good theatre, stays with you.
I've also come to appreciate theatre, including “The Phantom Of The Opera”, because I see how it's similar to tennis. Thousands of people coming to watch talented performers who, under the lights, exhaust every ounce of energy they have because of their passion for the craft.
It's really admiring, and I hope my fans feel the same way when I take the court.
Marin Cilic spoke with Jonathon Braden