On The Line: Dudi Sela

It appeared that it would be another disappointing year at Indian Wells for 32-year-old Israeli Dudi Sela. After winning just five games in the quarter-finals of the Oracle Challenger Series Indian Wells, the veteran won just three games in the second round of qualifying at the BNP Paribas Open, held at the same site. But a late withdrawal allowed Sela into the main draw, and suddenly he is into the third round at the ATP World Tour Masters 1000 event for the first time since 2010 (l. to Robredo). 

Sela, who plays Marcos Baghdatis for a spot in the Round of 16 on Tuesday, spoke with ATPWorldTour.com about what would help his career, and what passion he wants to pursue in the future.

What’s your biggest passion outside of sports and why?
Now it’s my kids. I’m older, I want to spend it with my kids. I’m not even practising. My wife is working… when I’m in Israel, one hour practice, that’s it. I’m the babysitter, and I love it.

What’s the last book you read?
It’s an Israeli book, it’s called The Brain.

What’s your favourite book of all-time?
I’m not sure, I’m more into TV series now. My favourite is an Israeli show, ‘Fauda’.

Who is the world leader you admire most?
Yitzhak Rabin, he was the Israeli Prime Minister. I think he tried to make a difference in Israel.

What is the last concert or show you attended?
An Israeli singer, Omer Adam, two weeks ago. But in London I watched U2.

Favourite sport besides tennis?
I think football, soccer.

Your tennis career will be a success if ___________
If I have 10 more centimetres.

After my career I want to ___________
Be involved in tennis in Israel. I want to be a coach, or develop players in Israel.