Watching the US Open this year has been nothing short of inspiring, not only because of the incredible athleticism on display, but also because of the way players conduct themselves on and off the court. This week, Jannik Sinner’s quarterfinal win was a proud moment for Italians everywhere, but what stood out even more than his performance was his post-match interview.
Sinner spoke with grace, humility, and eloquence. He acknowledged his preparation, expressed deep respect for his opponent (who also happens to be his friend), and shared his passion for the game without arrogance. It was a masterclass in communication, a reminder that success doesn’t need to shout to be heard.
As I watched, I couldn’t help but think, what if Canadian REALTORS® approached communication with the same poise as these world-class athletes? What if our industry embraced respect, humility, and professionalism, especially in an age when social media noise often overshadows substance?
Grace in an Era of Noise, That’s It!
Social media has given us an incredible platform to connect, share knowledge, and build relationships. But let’s be honest, it has also become a battleground of egos, where gaslighting, drama, and divisiveness often steal the spotlight. In recent years, I’ve noticed an unfortunate trend, Canadians have become so enthralled with attacking others, online and offline, that we’ve lost sight of something essential – kindness.
In tennis, even at the highest levels of competition, players show respect for one another. They shake hands after gruelling matches, compliment their opponent’s strengths, and acknowledge the effort it takes to compete. Imagine if REALTORS® approached competition this way. Instead of tearing others down to elevate ourselves, what if we celebrated each other’s wins and learned from one another’s strategies?
What Tennis Players Get Right, and REALTORS® Can Too!
Here are a few lessons REALTORS® can take from the best tennis players in the world:
1. Speak with Intentionality
Before a big match, players don’t talk trash. They speak with calm confidence about their preparation, their respect for the game, and their determination to do their best. For REALTORS®, this means being intentional in how we communicate with clients, colleagues, and the public. Avoid the hype. Avoid unnecessary negativity. Focus on delivering value and clarity.
2. Respect the Competition
Tennis players understand that their opponents make them better. In real estate, competition can bring out the best in us, if we approach it with respect. Instead of discrediting others online or gossiping offline, acknowledge that there’s room for everyone. Success doesn’t require someone else’s failure.
3. Control Your Emotions
This is a hard one for myself, being Italian, I get caught up in emotions but I have learned to be better with time. When things go wrong on the court, the best players keep their composure. They don’t lash out, they adjust and refocus. In real estate, deals fall through, clients change their minds, and markets shift. How we respond matters more than what happens. Emotional intelligence is one of the greatest assets a REALTOR® can have.
4. Lead with Grace, Not Ego
Tennis players often use the phrase “respect the game.” In real estate, we should respect the profession, and the people in it. Lead with integrity, humility, and professionalism. Grace is strength under control.
Bringing This Back to Canadian Real Estate
The truth is, Canadians pride themselves on being polite and kind, but the tone online doesn’t always reflect that anymore. The constant attacks, call-outs, and negativity don’t elevate our industry, they diminish it. Clients are watching. Future REALTORS® are watching. The public perception of our profession is shaped not only by what we do in transactions, but by what we post, share, and say online.
When I saw Jannik Sinner speak about his opponent with such warmth and dignity, I thought, this is what leadership looks like. It’s not loud. It’s not arrogant. It’s grounded, intentional, and respectful. These are the same qualities that define exceptional REALTORS®.
So here’s the challenge, the next time you’re tempted to engage in online drama, ask yourself, would a world-class athlete do this? Would they waste their energy tearing someone down? Or would they stay focused on their game, their goals, and their growth?
As REALTORS®, we are in the business of relationships, not rivalries. Let’s stop swinging at every comment and start showing the world what true professionalism looks like. Grace isn’t weakness, it’s power under control. And in the long game, just like in tennis, poise will always beat provocation.
Virginia Munden
