Zeynep Sönmez is making waves in Turkish tennis, reaching a career-high of 91 in the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) rankings. Her remarkable achievement came after claiming the first WTA title in Merida, Mexico, joining Çağla Büyükakçay as the only two Turkish women to reach such a milestone. This not only boosts Türkiye's global sports presence but also ignites the aspirations of a new generation of players.

Zeynep Sönmez - A Beacon of Turkish Tennis Success

Tennis's Ascent in Türkiye

Tennis is steadily gaining ground in Türkiye. According to the Turkish Tennis Federation (TTF), as of 2023, the country has around 11,000 registered players, nearly 700 clubs, and over 2,000 courts nationwide. These figures hint at the sport's potential, yet more investment at the grassroots level is required to transform initial interest into long-term success. 2: The growth of tennis in Türkiye is a testament to the nation's evolving sports culture. With an increasing number of players taking to the courts, there is a palpable sense of excitement and possibility. The TTF's efforts in promoting the sport are starting to bear fruit, as more and more people discover the joys and challenges of tennis.

Secrets of Sönmez's Success

For Sönmez, pressure is a privilege. She adopts the mantra from Billie Jean King and turns it into a positive force. "I try to transform pressure into something beneficial; it serves as a reminder of my purpose. Thus, pressure becomes a privilege," she explains. This mindset, combined with rigorous mental preparation, helps her withstand the rigors of professional tennis, including grueling travel schedules and the physical strain of injuries. 2: Sönmez draws inspiration from tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and the recently retired Rafael Nadal. She admires their unwavering determination and grit. "Watching Nadal fight for every point taught me about perseverance," she says. She also learns from female icons such as Maria Sharapova and Victoria Azarenka, integrating their lessons into her own playing style.

Off the Court Inspirations

Off the court, Sönmez finds solace and inspiration in the arts. A passionate movie lover, she views films as a mental refuge and a source of resilience. "The way characters overcome challenges in movies influences how I face difficulties on the court," she shares. Music, especially from the golden era of '90s Turkish pop, holds a special place in her heart. She gains strength from the soulful themes of Sezen Aksu's songs and finds joy in the works of Tarkan, Sertab Erener, and Mustafa Sandal. 2: Sönmez's love for music is a crucial part of her emotional well-being. She can't go a day without listening to Sezen Aksu's music. It provides her with the motivation and inspiration to keep pushing forward, both on and off the court.

Beyond Personal Victories

Sönmez understands that her journey is about more than just personal achievements. She is committed to growing tennis in Türkiye and advocating for better infrastructure and increased visibility for the sport. "I want people to see that we, too, can compete on the world stage," she emphasizes. 2: Her vision extends far beyond her own success. By inspiring young athletes and promoting the sport, Sönmez is laying the foundation for a brighter future for Turkish tennis. She remains steadfast in her mission to represent her country with pride, whether it's in high-stakes matches or in her efforts to grow the sport.