Brisbane, Australia, 4 November 2022 | Leigh Rogers
After two injury-interrupted years, Mia Repac is beginning to make her mark in professional tennis.
The 18-year-old from New South Wales has made three ITF quarterfinals and won 15 of her 25 matches since July. This has helped Repac gain her first WTA ranking points.
In our series profiling Tennis Australia’s National Tennis Academy athletes, Repac reflects on her biggest influences and the important lessons she has learned so far in her young career …
Can you tell us about your start in tennis?
I was six when I started playing and it was because of my dad. He used to play with his friends in our hometown of Wollongong. I used to go and watch and cry on the umpire chair asking to play, so he decided to put me into Saturday morning squads just for fun and I’ve advanced from there.
What do you enjoy about tennis?
I just love competing and working hard. It’s really fun. I like meeting a lot of people and getting to travel to different places around the world too.
How much travel have you done so far in your career?
I’ve been a lot to Asia, a lot around Australia, all the different states. I’ve been to Europe a few times and America.
Do you have a favourite place you’ve travelled?
I love Europe, especially in summer. I love the weather, the people there and the food.
What are your tennis dreams?
My tennis dream is to get to the top 10 and play at all the Grand Slams.
Who have been the biggest influences so far in your career?
Probably my parents, especially my dad. He’s always been a big part of my tennis. He’s always been there for me, pushed me through hard times and he’s really had a big impact.
Have you modelled your game on anyone in particular?
I like Simona Halep, so I’ve always tried to play like her. She’s obviously very aggressive too, loves her backhand. I watch a lot of her matches to see her tactics and how I can incorporate those into my game.
Who are your other favourite tennis players to watch?
Victoria Azarenka is always someone I’ve admired from a young age. I’ve always loved the way she plays and fights on the court and how she’s aggressive. That’s how I like to play too.
Are there any Australian players that have inspired you?
I’ve always liked watching Sam Stosur and Ash Barty, they’re both amazing. I love Ash’s variation and how she dominated with her slice and her all-round game.
Have you spent any time with Ash when she was…
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