Golfer Vani Kapoor First Broke Stereotype At 10 - She Hasn't Stopped Ever Since

In conversation with Shaili Chopra on The Rule Breaker Show, Vani Kapoor, one of India's top female golfers, offered honest insights into her journey as a professional athlete. She shed light on the evolving culture of golf, the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated sport, and the very important role mental health and sports psychology play in shaping athletes' careers. 

Journey From The Start

Kapoor, who started her golfing career at the age of 10, shared the struggles of navigating a sport often stereotyped as an "old man’s game." As the first woman to play golf at DLF, she faced ridicule and bullying, yet remained steadfast in her pursuit. Reflecting on her 12-year professional career, she revealed how when she was younger, success meant winning trophies. Now, it’s about being satisfied with the hard work she has put in, regardless of whether it's a win or a loss.

The Overlooked Role of Mental Health in Sports

One of the standout points in the interview was Kapoor’s emphasis on the impact of sports psychology. She explained how having a sports psychologist reasons things out for you, connects you to your purpose, and helps you channel your strengths. 

The one major thing that has happened is having a sports psychologist. For Physical Fitness someone was always there, having a golf coach, having my parent's support but what has been added is a sports psychologist.. when I started there was not much knowledge about it… you had to fight your battles on your own or probably ask your coach or ask my parents how to go about it and probably even they did not have that much knowledge so you just used to kind of find your way through. But now having a sports psychologist is much more easier.’

Initially, like many athletes, she relied on physical fitness, coaching, and family support. However, the addition of a sports psychologist helped her unlearn the notion of overworking and adopt a smarter, more focused approach. This shift not only improved her performance but also bolstered her confidence and mental resilience.

I used to spend 12 hours a day on the golf course, thinking more hours meant better results. Now, I know working smart and setting clear targets is more effective.

The Intersection of Mental and Physical Health

Kapoor stressed the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being in sports. She explained how mental health is as important as physical strength. It’s not just about hitting the gym or practising; it’s about understanding your purpose and staying mentally aligned. Kapoor also touched on her fitness and nutrition regimen, which began in her teenage years. By eliminating unhealthy habits early on, she ensured her body was prepared for the demands of professional golf.

She explained, “Like you know when I was younger I was taught that you need to work hard but I was never taught how to work smart and according to what my needs are. So I used to go around hit thousands of balls a day spend 12 hours at the golf course and that was just a part of my DNA. After working with these sports psychologists I learned that you know putting in so much time and effort is not necessarily enough, you can do it in a shorter period of time if you have achieved all your targets. Everyone has a different plan, a different strategy on how to achieve it, so I actually had to like the past 2-3 years unlearn how to not overdo overwork because that also draws energy away from you. And then the output that you give is not powerful enough, so that's one thing that has definitely changed and that also has an impact on your self-confidence the self-belief.”

Breaking Stereotypes in Sports

As a female golfer, Kapoor has consistently broken societal norms. She highlighted the challenges women face, including gender bias and limited recognition. She remarked how people often judge athletes solely by their achievements. But they are more than just their medals. 

She also critiqued the way female athletes are reduced to their appearances or potential careers in acting, unlike their male counterparts. Kapoor pointed out how nobody asks when Virat Kohli will join films. But for women, the conversation quickly shifts from their sport to their looks or other industries.

Redefining Discipline and Fitness for Women

Kapoor encouraged women to view fitness as an investment rather than a sacrifice. She advised that discipline is key, but it’s important to approach it as something that enhances your life rather than limits it. Start small, stay consistent, and treat fitness as a long-term commitment. She also addressed misconceptions about weight training, urging women to embrace it as a vital component of overall health and strength.

Changing the Narrative for Women in Sports

Kapoor emphasized the need for systemic change to foster a culture of sports among young girls. She suggested incorporating sports education into school curriculums to ignite interest and awareness. She said that kids should learn about sports beyond just playing. Knowing who won a medal and understanding different sports can inspire the next generation. She also called for greater media representation of female athletes, emphasizing how cricket dominates the spotlight while other sports are sidelined.

As female golfers like Vani Kapoor continue to shine, they pave the way for a future where women in sports are celebrated not just for their achievements but for their many identities.