Two Tennis Fans’ Tennis Pilgrimage
The Australian Open isn’t just a tennis tournament—it’s a journey into the heart of the sport, where players and fans alike come together to celebrate the game.
For Deniz and Isaac, this year’s trip became more than just spectating; it was a transformative experience filled with invaluable lessons.
A Catch-Up With Zeynep Sönmez: The Rising Turkish Star
As Deniz and Isaac strolled through Melbourne Park, Turkish-born Deniz up with Zeynep Sönmez, a trailblazer in Turkish tennis. Born on April 30, 2002, in Istanbul, Sönmez is a right-handed player who achieved her career-high singles ranking of world No. 88 in December 2024. Her career accolades include one WTA singles title and four ITF singles titles, marking her as a prominent figure in the world of tennis.
Sönmez’s 2025 Australian Open Debut
Sönmez made her main draw debut at the 2025 Australian Open. Although she was defeated in the first round by Australian wildcard Talia Gibson in a hard-fought three-set match, the encounter showcased her resilience. The match ended with scores of 3-6, 7-6, 6-1, with Sönmez reflecting afterward on the lessons she took from the experience
A Mystical Encounter at Melbourne Park
As they wandered the vibrant grounds of Melbourne Park, Deniz and Isaac encountered a series of mentors—players and coaches who embodied the wisdom of tennis. Each interaction revealed insights that would forever change their approach to the game.
Key Lessons from Their Journey
1. Mastering Footwork: The Foundation of Tennis
The first mentor, “The Strategist,” emphasized the importance of footwork. He explained that small, rapid steps—known as prep steps—are critical for maintaining balance and positioning during rallies.
Takeaway:
Practice the cross over step, focusing on timing your jump with your opponent’s shot. This movement keeps you ready to respond to any direction.
2. Mental Toughness: Staying Calm Under Pressure
“The Psychologist” introduced Deniz and Isaac to 4-7-8 Breathing and the Tennis Ball Squeeze technique. By dynamically squeezing a tennis ball with the left hand for 10–15 seconds before serving, players can calm their nerves and prevent choking during high-pressure moments.
3. Building Consistent Habits
James Clear’s principles of habit formation also came into play during their journey. The Habit Maker explained that small, consistent actions lead to long-term success. Using the Four Laws of Habit Formation, Deniz and Isaac discovered how to make practice a seamless part of their daily lives.
The Four Laws:
- Make it obvious: Place your tennis gear where you can see it.
- Make it attractive: Pair practice with something enjoyable, like music or a reward.
- Make it easy: Start with short, manageable sessions.
- Make it satisfying: Track progress visually, like marking practice days on a calendar.
4. Doubles Strategy: Positioning and Partnership
On the doubles court, Deniz and Isaac learned from The Strategist about the art of positioning. He taught them:
- Don’t look back: While at the net, focus on the opposing net player to anticipate volleys.
- Master the St Andrews Cross: This doubles strategy increases predictability, putting opponents on the defensive.
Key Insight:
Good doubles play isn’t just about hitting—it’s about teamwork and reading the game.
Reflections on the Journey
Deniz and Isaac’s pilgrimage to the Australian Open was more than an opportunity to watch world-class tennis—it was a chance to grow as players.
By blending physical skills, mental toughness, and strategic thinking, they returned home with a renewed passion for the sport and a toolkit to elevate their game.
