Athlete of the Week: Anna Babayan

Nine-year-old Anna Babayan defeated Grace Hagopian 6-4, 6-2, to win the Girls 12s division of the Celsius Local Classic July 28 to 29, at the Bath & Racquet Club in Sarasota. The Braden River Elementary fourth-grader will now prepare for the NESQUIK “Little Mo” Internationals — Forest Hills Aug. 20 to 24 in Forest Hills, N.Y. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

What was your reaction when you won the Celsius Local Classic?
I was happy because I won.

What’s the toughest part about playing against girls who are older than you?
They are more aggressive and have more power.

How long have you been playing tennis?
Since I was 3 years old. I saw my sister and brother playing.

What do you enjoy the most about tennis?
I get to have fun, and I get to be outside a lot.

What’s your fondest tennis moment?
I won a lot of tournaments.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned from watching your brother and sister play tennis?
It made me have skill.

Who is your favorite tennis player?
Maria Sharapova. She works hard and is really nice.

How many siblings do you have?
I have a sister, Marie, who is 17 years old and a brother, Shagen, who is 21 years old.

What’s your favorite subject?
Writing. I get good grades, and it’s really fun.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
A tennis coach

If you could play another sport for a day, what would it be?
Soccer. My dad used to play it.

Do you have a favorite food?
Fried chicken

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Washington. I was born there.

Do you have a favorite book?
“My Best Frenemy”

What’s your favorite TV show?
“Little Rascals.” It’s really entertaining.