Interview with Professional Golfer Sharmila Nicollet

Sharmila Nicollet started golfing at the age of 11 and won her first tournament by the tender age of 15. She’s also a former national sub-junior swimming champ with over 72 gold and silver medals won in state and national aquatic meets.

Nicollet went into professional golfing at 18 years old and was the youngest Indian golfer to qualify for Ladies European Tour. She finished the top Indian golfer at T22, at the 2011 Hero Honda Women’s Indian Open.

Sharmila Nicollet has taken the world of golf by storm with her unmistakeable skills, exceptional abilities and graceful beauty. Nicollet even manages to find time to indulge in a bit of modeling in between a rigorous and serious golfing career. Find out how this gorgeous golfer stays fit, fabulous and fierce on and off the green.

FG: How did you get your start with golf?

SN: I started golf at the age of 11. I joined the AJGA camp for fun. My family was also into the game. I then realized I had a talent for this game and took it seriously and it got me this far.

FG: At what point did you know you were exceptional at golf and/or passionate about the game?

SN: I am a sportsperson at heart. I was a state level swimmer and an athlete but I realized that it wasn’t a lucrative career option. It also has a very short shelf-life. Golf is one game that can be played universally and at any age.  I love the game.  It’s very challenging both mentally and physically which intrigued me. You play against yourself and the golf course. I started playing when I was 11 and won my first tournament at 15 by 14shots. I’d fallen so deeply in love with golf that I never looked back and decided to take it up as my career by turning pro at 18.

Photo by Puma

FG: What does your fitness regimen consist include?

SN: As a professional athlete fitness is always going to be a large part of my life. In my sport it is very important to have a strong core and lower body. I hit the gym 5 days a week. Cardio, weights, upper and lower body forms a major part of my fitness routine and I am seeing the results on the golf course with my distances having increased over the last year. .
What people need to realize is that fitness routines are of no use unless backed by good nutrition. My body responds better to a good mix of proteins and carbs. After having gone through many tests suggested by my nutritionist I now have a better understanding of how my body reacts to certain exercise formulas. I do also have regular deep tissue massages to relieve any muscular stress. I have done a lot of yoga in the past which worked well to enhance my flexibility and balance. Regular meditation helps me to stay focused on my goals.

FG: Is it difficult to exercise or incorporate a workout routine into your rigorous golf training schedule?

SN: Yes, it is difficult but I have no choice. Staying in shape is hard work especially when you have to hit the gym after a long day on the golf course. Working out in the gym is my favourite stress buster, so I make sure that I find a gym wherever I travel and to do yoga it is not necessary to have much space or any equipment.

FG: What’s next for Sharmila?

SN: To perform well in the upcoming LET tournaments and prepare for the Ladies European Tour 2015. I also hope to qualify and Play on the LPGA Tour in 2016.

FG: Thanks so much Sharmila for your time and consideration. We wish you the best in all of your future endeavors.

Click here to visit Sharmila Nicollet’s website!

Featured photo by: Ladies European Tour