
SONJA
ZHIYENBAYEVA
Next tournament
Date, Place
Winner
W15 Madrid & W15 Antalya
ITF Junior Ranking
14
Win rate
69%
I’m Sonja
a 18-year-old professional tennis player born in Kazakhstan with Polish and Kazakh roots. Currently based in Germany and Cyprus, I am dedicated to pursuing my dream of excelling in the world of tennis.
From junior competitions on the biggest stages to stepping into the professional events, my journey is all about growth, resilience, and chasing my dreams.
Follow me on my journey, stay updated on my latest matches, and explore my path in the world of professional tennis.


My journey began humbly at just two years old, hitting a ball against the wall in my then hometown Almaty, growing more inspired over the years by being on the court and watching my brothers and father play and coach across various countries, including the Czech Republic, Poland, Qatar, Singapore, and Turkey.
Their passion for the sport, combined with the inspiring top players I met and practiced with through their coaching careers and connections, sparked my own fascination. Tennis became a family legacy, with my close family shaping my skills and remaining an integral part of my journey today.
In my earlier years, I mostly competed on European soil, in Czechia, Poland, and Germany but besides Tennis played Handball for my local team and enjoyed a variety of musical instruments while growing up.
From competing in small national tournaments to becoming regional champion and winning big prize money tournaments in Germany where lots of players start their careers to representing myself on the biggest junior stages like the US Open, Australian Open, Roland Garros and Wimbledon, my career is a testament to growth, resilience, and unwavering determination.
My journey extends far beyond the court as my career has afforded me the privilege of traveling across the globe, immersing myself in diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. From training amidst the serene majesty of the Nepal Himalayas to competing in dynamic urban arenas across Europe and Asia, each destination has shaped my perspective and enriched my understanding of the world.
This year marks a pivotal chapter as I step into women’s professional events, embracing new challenges and opportunities. One of my goals is to one day compete at the highest level in the women’s Grand Slam tournaments, and I am committed to working tirelessly. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of competing in junior tournaments at some of the biggest stages in tennis, like the US Open, Australian Open, and Wimbledon. One of my proudest achievements was becoming Vice Champion at the U16 German Championships.
This year marks an exciting new chapter for me as I step into women’s events. I’m ready to embrace the challenges ahead and can’t wait to see where this journey will take me next.

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