Holding the world No. 1 ranking for 12 weeks, Ana Ivanovic claimed 15 WTA Tour-level singles titles throughout her professional career. Her most significant victory occurred at the 2008 French Open, a triumph that solidified her standing among the elite athletes of her generation after a rapid ascent through the international tennis ranks.
Early Development and Transition
Born in 1987 in Belgrade, SFR Yugoslavia, Ivanovic began playing tennis at five after observing Monica Seles on television. During the NATO bombing, she maintained her training schedule in an abandoned swimming pool during winter months. At 13, she relocated to Basel, Switzerland, to access superior coaching facilities, supported by her manager Dan Holzmann.
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Ivanovic made her WTA Tour debut in 2004, quickly defeating established players including Svetlana Kuznetsova and Amélie Mauresmo. Her 2008 victory at the French Open propelled her to the top of the world rankings. She also reached the final at the 2007 French Open and the 2008 Australian Open. By the end of her career, she had accumulated over $15.5 million in prize money.
Style and Later Career
Known for an aggressive playstyle and a powerful forehand, Ivanovic was cited by Nadia Petrova as possessing one of the best shots in the game. Following a mid-career decline, she rebounded in 2014, winning four titles and finishing the year ranked world No. 5. She officially announced her retirement from professional tennis in December 2016.
Off-court Contributions
Beyond her competitive tennis career, Ivanovic serves as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. She is recognized for her work with the organization, utilizing her platform to support global initiatives. Additionally, she has maintained a public profile as a model, balancing her athletic legacy with philanthropic and media engagements.
Fast facts
- Born: 1987, Belgrade
- Citizenship: Serbia
- Professional debut: 2004
- Career titles: 15 WTA Tour-level
- Major win: 2008 French Open
- Highest ranking: World No. 1
- Languages: Serbian, English, German
- Retirement: December 2016
Questions readers ask
What was Ivanovic's signature shot?
She was widely recognized for her aggressive forehand.
Did she win more than one major tournament?
She won one major title, the 2008 French Open.
Achievements
- Affiliated with UNICEF
- Worked as tennis player and model
