Sometimes I think if I had the same body and the same natural ability and someone else's brain, who knows how good a player I might have been.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
Well, I think most people understand that there's a big difference between who you are and who, you know, you play.
I have a unique ability to predict the flight of the ball, and my teammates have a unique ability to find me.
The truth is that throughout my careers in both chess and the martial arts, I often knew that my rivals were more naturally gifted than me - either with their mental machines or their bodies. But I have believed in my training, my approach to learning, and my ability to rise to the challenge under pressure.
I think that people who have played sports have an ability to relate to people because when you're playing you have to work on teams and with opposing players.
I think each player and myself live things differently because I have no physical effort to make.
To me, when people say, 'Oh, you're a freak athlete,' it's bittersweet. It's a huge compliment to say, 'O.K., you have physical abilities that are kind of above and beyond.' But at the same time, I feel like it diminishes the mental side of the game.
I always believed in my ability, but I think in any sport you need that little bit of luck.
Sometimes you're not sure about a player. Sometimes you doubt. Sometimes you have to guess. Sometimes... you just know.
I don't think, as a player, I have a weakness on the field. I've done a great job of becoming good at everything, so I think that's what separates me.
I think you can be athletic and intellectual at the same time.