What brought you to New York to work with MatchPoint NYC? I had a great relationship with Nino Muhatasov, MatchPoint NYC co-founder, and he played a huge role in me coming to New York. MatchPoint NYC is truly a state-of-the-art tennis facility for a professional tennis player. What are some of your favorite places to go and activities to do in New York? Now that I have a son, I look for familyfriendly places to take him, including Central Park and the boardwalk in Brooklyn. What is the next step in your playing career? Are you pursuing a comeback? I am currently working on a comeback, so stay tuned. I will make the announcement if it all works out. What goals should a player set for
themselves during the offseason? To improve all elements that need finetuning. It’s important to fine-tune even the strong elements of your game and add new elements that would help you have a better season. What is a typical day like during the off season for you? Nino and I have developed a routine that was a mix of exercise twice daily, including swimming two times per week for the first three weeks. Starting with week four, tennis training time increased and fitness exercises decreased. Rest is important, as you must let your body cool off. What does your typical diet consist of? It’s important to understand that each player should have a unique nutritional plan, specifically tailored to their body and physical needs. My typical day started
Nino Muhatasov (left), co-founder and director at MatchPoint NYC, was instrumental in bringing Alona Bondarenko (right) on to the MatchPoint NYC staff
with a bowl of oatmeal, and lunch always consisted of protein and vegetables … staying hydrated was key. When the season ends, the first thing to do is to get rest before the new season begins.
WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED Play tennis year round under a Farley bubble. The Farley Group is the world leader in air-supported structures and has provided over 20 tennis bubbles in New York and Long Island. Contact us today to learn about how you can turn your outdoor courts into a year round facility.
www.thefarleygroup.com l info@thefarleygroup.com
1-888-445-3223
NYTennisMag.com • January/February 2016 • New York Tennis Magazine
9