By Scoop Malinowski
Status: WTA 180.
DOB: May 10, 1998 In: Brisbane, Australia
First Memory Of Tennis: First memory of tennis would be going to weekends to watch social tennis with my dad (Ming Hon). And I’m just kind of watching and hitting in whenever they had a drink. So that would be my first memory.
Tennis Inspirations: Growing up, Federer of course. But on the women’s side – Justine Henin.
Last Book Read: I’m reading a marketing book right now, on digital marketing.
Current Car: A Mercedes (black).
First Famous Player You Met Or Encountered: Whoa. Encountered… Sorry, I need to think about that. Honestly, I met Justine Henin actually when I was fourteen. So that was probably one of my biggest idols that I met at a young age. And Sam Stosur. I looked up to her.
Greatest Career Moment: Winning the doubles, Fed Cup tie with Ash Barty, against USA (2019).
Most Painful Moment: I’m gonna have to say it’s that as well. (Why?) Just the fact it was Fed Cup, playing for Australia, playing with Ash was an unbelievable experience. It was the final tie. So it was on us. And I was stressed. I’ve never been so nervous in my life I think. I was having a panic attack [smiles]. And being able to get the win for Australia was the best win ever. (Australia advanced to Fed Cup semis.)
Best You Ever Felt On Court: In 2019, probably maybe French. I won a round. I felt good. Felt good about my game at the time. (It was her first Grand Slam main draw win vs. Timea Babos 36 62 61.)
Favorite Tournaments: Vancouver is up there. It’s not a big tournament but it’s won awards for best tournament. I had excellent housing. But then Australian Open – nothing can beat that.
Why Do You Love Tennis: I love what it has brought me. I was home-schooled so it brought me a lot of lifelong friendships. And travel as well. I’ve been able to travel from 12 year sold. The opportunities for me have been the best part for me.
Funny Tennis Memory: … I can’t think of one…
Funniest Players Encountered: I think… obviously Nick (Kyrgios) is up there for being funny. Bublik is obviously a good one to watch too.
Strangest Match: It got so windy that everything was flying, umbrellas, umpire chairs. I just ran to the corner of the court fence and hoped not to get hit. It was in Canberra.
Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Chocolate.
Embarrassing Tennis Memory: Not at the top of my head.
People Qualities Most Admired: Loyalty. Generous. And humble.
Australia · Fed Cup · Justine Henin · Priscilla Hon · Roger Federer · Roland Garros
