As the holiday season arrived, tennis stars around the globe embraced Christmas in unique and heartwarming ways, balancing family traditions, professional commitments, and festive cheer. From sun-soaked beaches to intensive training sessions, here’s a glimpse into how some of the world’s most famous tennis players celebrated Christmas 2024.
Maria Sharapova: A Magical Christmas with Family
Maria Sharapova, now enjoying her life off the court, brought the magic of Christmas to her home with her young son, Theo. Her social media was filled with heartwarming moments, from decorating their Christmas tree to Theo’s wide-eyed amazement at festive lights. Christmas for Sharapova this year was all about creating cherished memories with her family, a perfect blend of warmth and nostalgia.
Emma Raducanu: Festivities Down Under
Emma Raducanu, the British tennis star, chose an unconventional route, celebrating Christmas away from the UK. Her sunny snapshots revealed a holiday season spent amidst New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes. From beach barbecues to exploring local traditions, Raducanu’s festive break was a refreshing change before diving into preparations for the 2025 season.
Coco Gauff: Fireworks and Festive Fun
Coco Gauff found a way to combine her professional dedication with the holiday spirit. Arriving in Perth, Australia, for the upcoming season, she spent Christmas Eve at a local fair, enjoying rides and watching dazzling fireworks. Her Instagram stories reflected a delightful balance of serious training and youthful festive joy, making her celebration both inspiring and relatable.
Chris Evert: Passing the Torch
Tennis legend Chris Evert spent her Christmas on the court, but not as a competitor. Instead, she dedicated her holiday to mentoring young players at her academy. For Evert, Christmas wasn’t just about celebration; it was an opportunity to inspire the next generation of tennis talent, showcasing her enduring love for the game.
Taylor Fritz: Family First
For Taylor Fritz, Christmas came a little early this year. The American star enjoyed quality time with his family, sharing touching moments with his son before heading to Australia for the season’s start. His celebration emphasized the importance of creating space for loved ones amidst the rigorous demands of a professional tennis career.
Alex de Minaur and Katie Boulter: Love and Sun
Engaged couple Alex de Minaur and Katie Boulter made the most of their Christmas in Australia. The pair spent the holiday on Bondi Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the company of close friends. Their laid-back and cheerful celebrations reflected their love for each other and the beauty of a beachside Christmas.
Iga Swiatek: All Business
World No. 1 Iga Swiatek proved that the road to greatness requires discipline, even during the holidays. Swiatek spent her Christmas focused on her training, sharing glimpses of her intense practice sessions. For her, this holiday season was a stepping stone toward maintaining her top spot in the tennis rankings.
Carlos Alcaraz: A Training Holiday
Carlos Alcaraz, one of tennis’s brightest young stars, mirrored Swiatek’s dedication. While Christmas might traditionally be a time for relaxation, Alcaraz showed his hunger for success by hitting the practice courts. His commitment demonstrated the level of focus required to stay competitive at the highest level of the sport.
Jannik Sinner: Hard Work and Holiday Cheer
Jannik Sinner chose to make his holiday season productive with a rigorous preseason training schedule. The Italian star shared updates with his fans, expressing his readiness for the challenges ahead while wishing everyone a Merry Christmas. His blend of cheer and determination highlighted the duality of an athlete’s life during the festive season.
Sebastian Korda: A Family Affair
Sebastian Korda kept his Christmas simple and heartfelt, staying in the U.S. to celebrate with his family. Alongside his siblings, who are professional athletes in their own right, Korda shared moments filled with love, laughter, and holiday spirit. His family-first approach added a personal touch to his otherwise demanding tennis lifestyle.
A Season of Joy and Dedication
Christmas 2024 revealed the diverse ways tennis stars integrate festive traditions into their unique lifestyles. Some prioritized family, while others stayed committed to their training. Whether celebrating on sunlit beaches, surrounded by loved ones, or perfecting their game on the court, these athletes showed that even during the holidays, their passion for tennis remains unwavering.
As the New Year approaches, these glimpses into their celebrations remind us that beneath the athletic excellence lies a shared humanity—a love for family, joy in the little things, and a dedication to the path they’ve chosen.
