Meet Tahlia Kokkinis, a 14-year-old from Brisbane who is one of Australia’s most promising junior players and a National Tennis Academy athlete.
Brisbane, Australia, 28 July 2023 | Leigh Rogers
Tahlia Kokkinis is currently the youngest athlete at Tennis Australia’s National Tennis Academy.
The 14-year-old from Brisbane already boasts an impressive tennis resume. She has won national titles, represented Australia in the Junior Billie Jean King Cup competition and recorded 19 wins from her 26 junior matches on the ITF World Tennis Tour so far this season.
Kokkinis has also been testing herself on the professional tour. She has spent the past month competing in Tunisia, where she has scored wins against players eight years her senior.
In our series profiling Tennis Australia’s National Tennis Academy athletes, Kokkinis reveals her future goals and role models …
How did you start playing tennis?
My dad wasn’t really brought up with tennis, but he became a tennis coach, and he first took me out on a public court to play at age three. I’ve loved it ever since.
What do you enjoy most about tennis?
I’m really competitive, so I like competing and the adrenaline. It’s just a fun sport to play.
What have been the highlights of your tennis journey so far?
I really love being able to travel overseas and experience different cultures. With tennis you get to go everywhere. I find it incredible that you can meet all these new people and have different experiences.
What has been your favourite place to travel?
I really like Europe. All parts of Europe are really beautiful. I also liked Egypt, that was really cool.
What are your tennis dreams?
I hope to win at least one Grand Slam title and become the No.1 in the world. I know that will be tough, but that is my goal.
Who are your favourite tennis players?
I really liked Ash Barty when she was playing, she was one of my favourites. I also like Novak Djokovic, he’s pretty cool. Rafa (Nadal) and Roger (Federer) are pretty incredible as well.
Tahlia Kokkinis at the National Tennis Academy in Brisbane. Picture: Tennis Australia
If you could steal a stroke from any player, who would it be and why?
Probably Ash Barty’s slice backhand. It was amazing. I really liked her creativity. I’d take her serve too, which was incredible.
Can you describe your playing style in one sentence?
I like to be aggressive and rip the ball.
How are you enjoying your time at the National Tennis…
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