University of Minnesota Athletics
Players Mentioned
Player Profile: Zeyneb Sarioglan
3/10/2022 11:15:00 AM | Tennis
Learn more about the Gophers’ sophomore as she shares on her start in tennis and more
Gopher Sports sat down with Zeyneb Sarioglan to discuss her thoughts on the season and time on and off the court in Minnesota. Sarioglan is in her second season with the Gophers, coming to Minneapolis from Ankara, Turkey. She speaks on her start in tennis, choosing the University of Minnesota, and more in her discussions below:
Gopher Sports: How did you get your start with tennis?
Zeyneb Sarioglan: I was doing a variety of sports when I was a child. One day, my mom brought me to a tennis club near the place where we were living and I was very impressed by the players and the way they practice. After that, I wanted to try tennis as well and it became my favorite.
GS: Do you have any young memories with tennis? When did you know you loved the sport?
ZS: In general, I have always enjoyed the sport and have thought it was a good fit for me. After realizing the responsibility for individual decisions that I make on the court, I loved the sport and always tried to get better. One young memory of mine with tennis is the first trophy that I received when I was 9. I was incredibly happy and felt that all the work and effort I put on and off the court paid off.
GS: Why did you choose the University of Minnesota?
ZS: The biggest reason was the fact that the University of Minnesota had both strong tennis and academic programs. It was offering a great combination of both aspects which put it above other schools.
GS: What field of Study are you in; why?
ZS: I'm double majoring in Psychology and Strategic Communication: Advertising and Public Relations, as well as minoring in Developmental Psychology. Before starting college I was very interested in the human mind and the way it works. However, after coming here, I realized I also have an interest in the other two fields.
GS: Favorite memory so far this season?
ZS: I had a lot of fun at the FGCU invite. The weather was warm and it was over winter break so there was no school work that needed to be done. Winning every match made the trip even more special. We also celebrated my birthday as a team which made the trip even better.
GS: What hobbies do you have and enjoy doing in your free time?
ZS: I really like doing jigsaw puzzles, cooking, and spending time with my family, friends, and cat. Recently, I got more into cooking since I have my own kitchen. In my free time, I like trying pescetarian recipes and baking cookies and cakes.
Fun Facts:
Hidden talent: Cooking
Favorite:
Season: Summer
Animal: Otter
Movie: Interstellar
TV Show: Friends
Food : Salmon and Brussel Sprouts
Tennis Player: Rafael Nadal
Night or morning person: Morning
Describe yourself in one word: Focused