I never really did Christmas before. Christmas Day? I mean - what's that? What's it all about? I was always flying on Christmas Day.

Monica Seles’ quote reflects her unique experience of Christmas, contrasting with the traditional celebrations that many people associate with the holiday. She admits that she “never really did Christmas before,” suggesting that her life and career didn’t leave much room for the typical holiday traditions that most people partake in. For Seles, Christmas Day was not a day for family gatherings or festive celebrations, but rather just another day on the road, as she was often flying for her career as a professional tennis player.

The phrase “What's that? What’s it all about?” highlights Seles’ sense of unfamiliarity with the holiday, revealing how her intense dedication to her sport kept her away from the typical holiday experiences. Her life was dictated by tournament schedules, meaning that Christmas, like many other holidays, became an afterthought or something outside her personal reality. The question underscores her detachment from the typical holiday norms, focusing instead on the demands of her career.

The reference to “I was always flying on Christmas Day” further emphasizes how her professional life took priority over traditional celebrations. It paints a picture of someone constantly on the move, driven by the commitment to her sport rather than the seasonal cheer that most people enjoy. This experience of isolation from holiday customs may have influenced her view of Christmas as just another working day.

Overall, Seles’ quote offers a glimpse into the sacrifice and dedication that come with being a top athlete. It underscores how career obligations can overshadow personal and family traditions, making certain aspects of life, like Christmas, feel distant or foreign.