Mexican racquetball stars Alexandra Herrera and Montserrat Mejía have been honoured as The World Games Athletes of the Month for August 2024 following their incredible performance at the Racquetball World Championships in San Antonio, Texas. The duo's victory marks a significant milestone in their careers, and both athletes are filled with pride and excitement about what the future holds.
"I feel very happy to win this World Championship. The competition was difficult, but we did it," said Herrera, reflecting on their hard-fought win. Her partner, Mejía, echoed the sentiment: "I feel very happy to win this World Championship, the competition was difficult, but we did it."
Their road to success was not without challenges. Herrera overcame a serious injury just weeks before the event. "The hardest thing was that I broke my middle finger on 3rd July and the Championship started on 22nd August. I thought I wouldn’t recover in time, but I did, and Montse and I have a strong connection after playing together for nine years," Herrera explained.
Their longstanding partnership has been key in navigating the challenges of the tournament. Herrera is known for her calm and precise shots, while Mejía is recognised for her speed and intensity. Herrera said, "Montse and I complement each other very well. She’s very fast and has a strong character, while I am a player with precise shots and a calmer approach. We are the perfect couple."
Both athletes recall significant moments throughout the World Championship. "There were several moments. It's the World Championship, everyone wants to win and gives their best game," Mejía shared. "In some games, I get nervous or desperate, wanting to finish the game. But I worked a lot with sports psychology to face those situations."
Looking ahead to 2025, the duo is eager for the chance to represent Mexico at The World Games in Chengdu, China. However, only one spot is available for female players, and they remain uncertain about who will represent the country. "We still don’t know who will represent Mexico at The World Games," Herrera said. Mejía added, "Whoever goes, I know will give their all to put Mexico on the top of the podium."
Mejía and Herrera are also considering their preparation strategies. Mejía noted, "If I get to go to TWG in Chengdu, my preparation would have to change. There are many things to improve, although I have improved a lot, there is always more to improve."
In terms of competition, both athletes recognise the calibre of opponents they may face at The World Games.
"There are many good countries like Argentina, Guatemala, USA, and Bolivia. The matches in The World Games will be intense," Herrera confessed.
Balancing the pressures of elite sport with personal life is also essential for both athletes. Herrera shared her approach: "My parents always taught me to be competitive on the court, but off the court, it's another thing. I have very good friends from other countries, and when they beat me, I congratulate them. Obviously, I don’t like to lose, but sometimes it’s my turn. I accept it and try to improve on what I failed at."
As role models, both athletes hope to inspire the next generation of racquetball players.
"I would tell them to never give up, always fight for their dreams," Herrera said. Mejía reinforced this message, saying, "Sometimes things don’t go the way we want, but we must keep working to achieve our goals and objectives."
With their eyes set on the future, Alexandra Herrera and Montserray Mejía continue to lead by example, showing the world what Mexican racquetball is capable of achieving.
