Tamara Korpatsch rises to German No.1 after curbing negative self-talk

For years, Tamara Korpatsch (31) remained in the second tier of German women's tennis. There was always someone else playing more successfully, and she received no support from the German Tennis Federation (DTB). But now, the Hamburg native has dispelled all doubts.

At the "MSC Hamburg Ladies Open" (prize money: €247,674) at Rothenbaum, Korpatsch is the only German player to reach the quarterfinals. With a world ranking of No. 81, she is currently the German No. 1.

Korpatsch never let setbacks discourage her and continued working with her team, led by her father Thomas. Her Maltipoo dog Stella (seven months) brought new love and positive energy into her life this year. But another change is also new for Korpatsch...

A New Approach on Court

Korpatsch was previously known for constantly talking to herself during matches and changeovers. Now, she is noticeably calmer.

"We definitely worked on that," confirms the local favorite from the Club an der Alster. "Before, I spoke too negatively and far too much to myself. My father always says: 'Turn off Radio Hamburg!' And I did that. I'm no longer Radio Hamburg; I think I quit."

However, the chattering has not been completely eliminated:

• "I stay with myself in difficult situations and try to encourage myself or tell myself what I did wrong on the last point."
• "Sometimes I get a bit angry."
• "I am strict with myself. But there are also points after which I say: 'That was right, keep it up.'"

Quarterfinal Matchup

In the quarterfinals on Friday, Korpatsch will face second-seeded Anhelina Kalinina (29/No. 57) from Ukraine for the first time in her career. A victory would move Korpatsch into the top 70 for the first time — certainly worth a radio announcement.