By Scoop Malinowski
Status: Tennis player for University of Syracuse. Sophomore.
Residence: Bradenton, FL
First memory of tennis: I was five when my mom, Ekaterina, took me with her to the tennis center, where I watched her give a lesson. I saw many kids running around and playing tennis so I tried as well. It was fun hitting balls with a racquet that was bigger than me at the time, and I really enjoying competing. I kept coming back to the tennis courts to get better.
Tennis inspirations: Serena Williams and Roger Federer.
Last book read: The last book I read was Data Detective. I needed to read it for one of my business classes in college. I expected it to be boring but it happened to be pretty intriguing.
First famous player you met or encountered: When I was 12, I played a regional competition in my home country and I met Mikhail Youzhny. My mom knew him from their childhood when they trained at the same club so she introduced me to him and I took a photo. I followed his career, watched his matches, and heard about his achievements, so it was a very exciting moment for me.
Greatest moment of your career so far: The greatest moment in my career so far was when I reached l finals of a professional event (ITF $15,000). It was in Cancun, Mexico during the summer so it was difficult to play because of the heat. I also got sick not long before the tournament. However, it didn’t stop me from continuing to fight. It felt so nice to hold a trophy in my hands and seeing my family so proud.
Most painful career moment: The most painful moment in career was when I played a semifinal match against a seeded player in the tournament. I wasn’t even ranked back then so it felt good going so far in the tournament. I was leading in third set 5-1 and then I lost it. I remember being super upset and blaming myself for not finishing strong. At the same time, it was a good learning experience on what I should and shouldn’t do.
Favorite tournament: My favorite tournament is Wimbledon. I really enjoying watching it. I hope that one day I will get to go and be there in person.
Embarrassing career memory: I was playing a weekend tournament at 14 years old. It was one of my first competitions in America since I moved from my home country, and I thought no one will beat me. I went on the court with confidence, and barely even said hi to my opponent. However, quickly started to lose due to many mistakes and the girl playing well. After I lost a match I thought I would win, I felt embarrassed for not respecting my opponent because she also put in the work. I should’ve been nicer and forget about the result but focus on the game.
Why do you love tennis: I love tennis because when I play I have no thoughts about anything else and I feel in total control. Everything depends on me on the court and I can show my skill.
Favorite players to watch: I like to watch Djokovic and Medvedev. Djokovic’s confidence and Medvedev’s touch is really exciting to watch.
Favorite ice cream flavor: Strawberry.
People qualities most admired: The qualities I admire the most about people are honesty and willingness to keep going even if it’s hard.
Anastasia Sysoeva · Cancun · ITF · Mikhail Youzhny · NCAA · Roger Federer · Serena Williams · Syracuse University · WTA
