Key Takeaways
- Kim Clijsters shared that finding the right management for her cycle on tour required years of trial and error before she adopted a copper IUD.
- The former world number one noted she would adapt her training phases around her cycle if she were competing in today’s sports landscape.
- Clijsters listed Steffi Graf, Monica Seles, Dave Chappelle, and the Backstreet Boys as her ideal podcast guests.
Managing physical demands as a female competitor
Former world number one Kim Clijsters discussed the physical challenges female athletes experience regarding their menstrual cycles, explaining how she learned to cope with the issue during her playing days. Addressing a fan inquiry on the Love All podcast with co-host Blair Henley, Clijsters noted that each competitor faces unique physical responses that require individualized solutions.
Reflecting on her early years on tour, the Belgian champion recalled testing oral contraceptives with her mother’s guidance, only to realize the routine clashed with the constant travel and schedule changes of professional tennis. She experienced bouts of extreme fatigue leading into her cycle alongside low iron levels before eventually finding stability through a copper IUD, which helped balance her physical and emotional well-being without interfering with her career.
Clijsters highlighted that current sports science has advanced substantially, enabling modern competitors in tennis, basketball, and soccer to adjust training loads around their cycles. Looking back at her own routines, Clijsters acknowledged she would modify her preparation if she were competing today, suggesting she would “adjust” and “train accordingly” rather than pushing her body to complete exhaustion right before her period.
Dream guests span tennis royalty and entertainment
The conversation also shifted to ideal interviews for future episodes of the podcast. When asked about top choices, Clijsters first pointed to legendary tennis icons Steffi Graf and Monica Seles before proposing names far outside the boundaries of professional athletics.
Clijsters named comedian Dave Chappelle as an unexpected dream guest, praising his ability to tackle complex topics with humor. She admitted she is drawn to his delivery, explaining that she gets “sucked into his storytelling” whenever she watches his material. Clijsters also expressed a desire to host pop group the Backstreet Boys, identifying the music act as a favorite from her youth.
Henley sets sights on Murray and Mirka Federer
Henley shared her own targets for the show, revealing she hopes to land interviews with Mirka Federer and three-time Grand Slam champion Andy Murray. Recalling previous media interactions, Henley praised Murray for his deadpan humor and willingness to cooperate with novel media ideas, including an unscripted segment in Cincinnati where he read harsh online comments.
When Henley approached the British star with the unusual concept, Murray quickly accepted, responding with “Yeah, sure, great.” Both hosts noted that Murray and his wife would make engaging guests to discuss tennis and their recent hospitality ventures.
