In our ‘Training Tips’ series, Storm Hunter reveals why practice sessions with Ash Barty were among the most “nerve-racking” of her career.
Melbourne, Australia, 6 April 2023 | tennis.com.au
Storm Hunter started playing tennis as a six-year-old in the Queensland city of Rockhampton.
“I have very fond memories of my first experiences there,” the 28-year-old related. “My parents never played tennis, but they enrolled me in local lessons and I’ve loved the game since.”
Hunter credits her childhood coach, Robert Beak, for fostering her love of tennis.
“I give all credit to Robert, because he made me enjoy it,” she said. “I still have a relationship with him, I still text and call him. It’s really cool to have that connection.”
From grassroots to Grand Slams, Hunter is now starring on the world stage.
She won the US Open 2022 mixed doubles title with John Peers and shortly after peaked at a career-high world No.8 in doubles.
Hunter, who has also proudly represented Australia in the Billie Jean King Cup and at the Olympic Games, shares an insight into her training routines and experiences in our Training Tips series …
Do you have a preferred time of the day to practice?
I’m definitely an early bird. I’m usually up pretty early. My husband always sets the alarm for 6am, so I kind of have no choice. I love an early practice and I love my coffee, so it’s great to go and get a coffee before hitting the court.
Do you like to follow a set practice routine?
I’m someone who kind of goes by feel. It can depend on what are we trying to get out of a session, how my body is feeling and if I have a match coming up. In practice we try to push a little bit more. Even if I’m not feeling so good, we’ll try to do more hours on the court. But during a tournament, it is a bit more on feel and trying to get ready for a match. That could be two hours or 30 minutes, whatever makes me feel good.
What is your favourite part of practice?
That’s a tough question. I love it when we play games and mix it up a little bit. Before we get out on court, we play a lot of spike ball or have an AFL footy that we kick around.
What is your least favourite part of practice?
I feel like if we keep everything the same, then I can get a little bit bored. But at the same time, you need to do the same thing over and over again to be happy to be able to do that in a match.
Do you remember the first professional player you had…
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