SUMMARY
- Arina Rodionova, born in Russia in 1989, emerged from a tennis-loving family, commencing her career in 2004.
- Adopting Australian citizenship in 2014, Arina married AFL player Tyrone Vickery in 2015.
Arina Rodionova, born on December 15, 1989, in Tambov, Russia, owes much of her tennis prowess to her tennis-enthusiastic family. Raised by her parents, Ivan and Natalia, alongside her older sister Anastasia, a former Olympian and tennis pro, Arina’s early years were immersed in the world of tennis.
Her parents’ support and encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping her career, fostering her passion for the sport from a young age. The Rodionova family’s support has been a cornerstone of Arina’s two decades of tennis journey, with her sister Anastasia being a former Top 15 doubles player.
Arina Rodionova tennis career: A late bloomer
Arina’s journey in professional tennis began in 2004 on the ITF Women’s Circuit in Protvino, Russia. However, her breakout season came in 2023, which was nothing short of spectacular, reaching 10 ITF Pro Circuit finals and clinching seven titles at 33 years of age. Her achievements reflect not only her prowess on the court but also her resilience and determination.
Arina Rodionova reached the singles ranking of world No. 105 at the beginning of the 2024 season. At the prime age of 34, her tennis achievements to date include 15 ITF singles titles, 42 doubles titles, and over $2 million in career prize money.
Her move to Australia and subsequent marriage
Adding a unique dimension to her story is Arina’s change in nationality. Originally playing for Russia, she embraced Australian citizenship in 2014, becoming the country’s no. 1-ranked female player. This change not only influenced her tennis career but also marked a significant chapter in her life.
In 2015, Arina entered a new chapter of her life as she happily tied the knot with Tyrone Vickery. The couple, celebrating eight joyful years together, shares a loving and private bond. Tyrone, a professional football player on the AFL team, brings a unique dynamic to their relationship.
As Arina continues to make tennis history, her family and husband remain steadfast pillars of support, contributing to the remarkable journey of this talented athlete both on and off the court.
Tennis Australia’s controversial stance
Despite Arina Rodionova’s outstanding achievements and dedication to Australian tennis, Tennis Australia’s decision to downplay her contributions has raised eyebrows. Denied a wildcard entry to the Australian Open 2024, Arina expressed her disappointment, feeling that her accomplishments were not given the recognition they deserved.
Australia’s top ranked woman Arina Rodionova has crashed out of Australian Open qualifying in the first round after she was controversially denied a wildcard into the main draw 😮 https://t.co/t1ef80Fa3K
— Herald Sun Sport (@heraldsunsport) January 9, 2024
Tennis Australia’s controversial stance on Arina’s career highlights the challenges athletes face in the politics of sport’s governing bodies. Arina’s on-court achievements and her no. 1 status in the country led her to believe she was unfairly denied one of the five wildcards for the 2024 Australian Open.
A historical triumph at 34
Arina Rodionova’s journey reached a historic milestone as she became the oldest woman to crack the Top 100 rankings. At 34 years old, Arina’s resilience came to fruition, solidifying her position among the tennis elite. Her victory at the Thailand Open in Hua Hin propelled her to a projected career-high ranking of No. 96, making her a trailblazer in the sport.
Never give up, I guess? 🤷🏽♀️ https://t.co/ypE3nKZhBb
— Arina Rodionova (@arinarodionova) February 1, 2024
Arina’s ascent to the Top 100 at this stage of her career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to the sport and her ability to overcome challenges. As she continues to defy expectations, Arina Rodionova’s story inspires aspiring athletes and stands as a symbol of triumph against adversity.