How did you get started in the industry?

In May 1999 I called Directory Enquiries, got through to David Chappell, former sports editor of The Times, and he gave me a column in the build up to the Sydney Olympics (I was ping ponging for Team GB). It was a life changing moment from someone who became a dear friend and mentor.

What is your favourite sport to cover?

Tennis!

Who has been your most memorable sporting interview?

Jake LaMotta in New York. I had expected the former middleweight champ to be contrite for his many crimes (chronicled in the Scorsese film Raging Bull), but he was unapologetic and misogynistic. It was a compelling 90 minutes.

What inspired you to write your books ‘Black Box Thinking’ and ‘Bounce’?

Both were based upon my sense that we underestimate the power of trial and error learning.

What are your five desk essentials?

I always have my laptop, mobile, kindle, earplugs and headphones