Interview with former tennis pro and entrepreneur Jörg Schors

There are so many exciting and interesting tennis stories. Today we want to share one of them with you: the story of Jörg Schors , a former professional tennis player who is now a successful entrepreneur. The Aachen native has been running a large car rental company for many years and, in conversation with tennis entrepreneur Marc Raffel, draws parallels between the world of tennis and the business world.
Because, in his opinion, the same applies to both tennis pros and entrepreneurs: "I must be completely convinced of the consequences of my actions!"

Marc Raffel: What skills and abilities should a professional tennis player possess in particular?
J. Schors: Besides good coordination and discipline, mental strength is paramount. You have to be able to seize the big points and give it your all. Then it's about realizing your maximum potential.

Marc Raffel: Why didn't you continue working on your promising tennis career back then?
J. Schors: I played at the Satellite level (now: ITF World Tennis Tour) for too long, which was unsatisfying. Since I've always been interested in business and the income prospects of a tennis career weren't the most favorable, I had a change of heart. The situation on the capital market at the time motivated me to get involved there.

Marc Raffel: Did you find the transition to your new job difficult?
J. Schors: No (laughs). I was successful quite quickly, and so I was soon convinced of my new path.

Marc Raffel: What was particularly important during this time?
J. Schors: In the capital market, you primarily need to be informed and able to react quickly, which initially meant working day and night. At the same time, I founded my car rental company to establish a second source of income. I was already familiar with this industry from my parents. Since things could quickly change direction in the new market, and often did, this proved to be a good decision.

Marc Raffel: Did you make a clean break or did you transition into a new professional life step by step?
J. Schors: Well, there was a transition process lasting about a year, during which I still played in the occasional tournament.

Marc Raffel: You are now a partner and managing director of SMILE Car Rental. What challenges did you face when you started your new role?
J. Schors: I learned the industry from the ground up and experienced every step firsthand. Initially, I personally handed over the cars to customers and conducted the initial consultations. This groundwork made it easier for me to plan and drive the further development and expansion of SMILE Car Rental.

Marc Raffel: From today's perspective, would you make the same decision again?
J. Schors: Yes, absolutely!

Marc Raffel: What makes SMILE car rental's offers particularly attractive?
J. Schors: We consciously try to differentiate ourselves from the major competitors, for example, with our flexible long-term rentals. We offer a truly transparent "all-inclusive price" and don't try to rip off customers through hidden fees or, especially, for subsequent damages, since most models are rented with €0 excess. Our service for our target group of business customers also stands out in that we strive to provide dedicated contacts. In case of any issues, the business customer has me as their direct contact person, so any problems can be resolved quickly and personally.
I admire Roger Federer!

Marc Raffel: What demands placed on a tennis professional are also placed on your current daily life as managing director of a medium-sized company?
J. Schors: In both areas, you have to deal with extremely stressful situations. You have to remain focused and objective. A solid strategy is essential, one that you stick to even in exceptional circumstances. I have to be completely convinced of the consequences of my actions.

Marc Raffel: To what extent has your company been affected by the coronavirus crisis?
J. Schors: Regarding long-term rentals, we're noticing fewer negative effects. We're currently roughly at the same level as last year. Without the pandemic, however, we would have continued to grow in this area. Rentals to customers injured in accidents have been significantly more affected by the coronavirus crisis. Less traffic means fewer accidents and therefore less demand for rental vehicles for temporary mobility.

Marc Raffel: Are you still involved in tennis today?
J. Schors: To be honest, I haven't touched a tennis racket in ages. Nevertheless, I occasionally watch the ATP tour and am interested in the German players. I admire Roger Federer, who plays outstanding tennis despite his age.