You already know "The Twelve Days of Christmas"—so we're doing something a little different this year. Throughout December, we'll highlight 12 things about the 2014 PowerShares Series, a competitive tennis circuit featuring legendary icons and world-renowned champions beginning on February 5.
For our fifth Q&A, we spoke to Hall of Famer Ivan Lendl, coach of Andy Murray.
TENNIS.com: How do you train to prepare for the PowerShares Series?
IVAN LENDL: My training techniques haven't really changed that much over the years—other than perhaps their consistency and intensity. I still work out in the gym, on bikes and roller blades, as well as playing enough tennis to keep sharp. As we get closer to the tour, I will step it all up so I am ready to put on a good show.
TENNIS.com: Among PowerShares Series players, who was your toughest opponent during your career and why?
IVAN LENDL: Jimmy [Connors] and John [McEnroe] are the most obvious, but depending on surface, altitude, balls, and location, there were lots of guys that were tough opponents. Mats Wilander, Yannick Noah, and Andres Gomez come to mind.
TENNIS.com: Who are you most looking forward to facing this season?
IVAN LENDL: I enjoy these events because the tennis is good and we try to put on an entertaining show for the crowd. That makes playing against all of the guys interesting and fun. It should be a good Series, which is why I am playing a bit more this year.
TENNIS.com: Your best serving tip for recreational players?
IVAN LENDL: Work hard on your second serve.
TENNIS.com: If you could have played any other sport professionally, what would you choose?
IVAN LENDL: I am not sure I would have chosen it as a kid because I had very little exposure to it, but I think golf challenges you on so many levels that I think I would have enjoyed playing on the pro golf tour.
