In the high-stakes, globe-trotting world of professional tennis, where individual ambition often takes center stage, the relationship between Australia's Alex de Minaur and Britain's Katie Boulter stands out as a heartening subplot. More than just a sporting power couple, their journey—from a chance meeting at a junior tournament to supporting each other in the upper echelons of the game—has captivated fans. However, their path hasn't been without its public bumps, including Boulter's candid admission that de Minaur was initially "not nice" to her, and the Australian's playful worry that his on-court intensity might make his girlfriend "hate" him.
From "Not Nice" to Nice: The Unlikely Beginning
The origin story of one of tennis's most beloved couples is not one of love at first sight. They first crossed paths as teenagers at the 2014 Wimbledon junior tournament. In a 2023 interview with The Times, Boulter revealed the less-than-fairytale start. "He was not nice to me at all," she recalled with a laugh. "He didn't speak to me for the whole two weeks. I think he was a bit shy, to be honest with you." The ice finally broke years later, in 2020, when they reconnected properly.
Their relationship quickly became public knowledge, marked by supportive social media posts and sightings in each other's player boxes. The dynamic was clear: two fiercely competitive athletes who found a sanctuary of understanding in one another. As Boulter put it, "We just get each other."
Navigating the Spotlight and Supporting Success
Being a tennis "it couple" means constantly navigating dual careers, travel logistics, and the glare of the media—especially when representing different nations in a historically competitive sporting rivalry. Both have spoken about the unique pressures and benefits.
Key aspects of their public partnership include:
- Mutual Support: They are frequently seen watching each other's matches, offering vocal encouragement. De Minaur was a pivotal figure when Boulter won her first WTA title in Nottingham in 2023, rushing to celebrate with her immediately after his own final in 's-Hertogenbosch.
- Healthy Competition: They train together when possible, pushing each other's limits. Boulter has credited de Minaur's work ethic for inspiring her own improvements.
- Handling the Hype: They manage media interest with a blend of openness and privacy, often sharing glimpses of their life together but keeping the core of their relationship away from the cameras.
The "Demon" on Court: "She Must Be Hating Me"
One of the most relatable and discussed elements of their relationship is the contrast between de Minaur's on-court and off-court personas. Nicknamed "The Demon" for his relentless speed and fiery competitiveness, he transforms into a different person during matches. This led to an amusingly anxious confession from de Minaur himself. After a particularly gritty, fist-pumping win, he wondered aloud to the media, "She must be hating me right now, the way I was behaving on court."
Boulter, however, has consistently dismissed any concern. She understands the dichotomy perfectly. "I love watching him play. I love that fire. I wouldn't want him any other way," she has said, emphasizing that she sees his intensity as a sign of his passion for the sport they both love.
A Tale of Two Breakthroughs
The 2024 season has been a landmark year for both, solidifying their status as a power couple at the top of the game. Their parallel successes have been a testament to their supportive dynamic.
- Alex de Minaur: The Australian has soared to a career-high ranking inside the world's top 10, cementing his status with monumental wins. His start to 2024 included defeating Novak Djokovic at the United Cup and then world No. 5 Andrey Rublev to lead Australia to the semifinals. He also claimed the biggest title of his career at the ATP 500 in Acapulco.
- Katie Boulter: The British No. 1 has mirrored her partner's ascent. She successfully defended her Nottingham title in 2024, a rare feat in modern tennis, and later won the prestigious WTA 500 event in San Diego, defeating top-10 player Jessica Pegula en route. This victory propelled her to a career-high ranking inside the world's top 30.
Their schedules often align, allowing them to travel and train together at major tournaments like Wimbledon and the Australian Open, where they are both crowd favorites. The image of Boulter cheering on de Minaur during his epic five-set win at Wimbledon 2024, and vice-versa during her runs, has become a defining snapshot of their partnership.
Facing Challenges and Public Scrutiny
Like any high-profile relationship, theirs has faced external tests. The constant travel can lead to long stretches apart. Furthermore, every loss one suffers is amplified by the media's focus on the couple. After a tough defeat for either, interview questions often veer toward how the other is supporting them. They have handled this with grace, using it as an opportunity to highlight their teamwork. Boulter once noted, "We're each other's biggest fans and also each other's toughest critics when we need to be."
The "not nice" comment also occasionally resurfaces in interviews, a testament to how a single, lighthearted anecdote can define a narrative. Both now laugh about it, with de Minaur joking that he had to make up for his early awkwardness. It has become a charming part of their lore, highlighting how far they have come.
Conclusion: A Modern Sporting Partnership
Alex de Minaur and Katie Boulter represent a new model of a sporting couple. They are not defined by one another's success but are amplified by it. From an awkward, silent introduction to becoming pillars of support during Grand Slam campaigns, their relationship thrives on a foundation of mutual respect for the immense dedication their profession requires. They have navigated the "not nice" claim and the "must be hating me" anxiety with humor and honesty, showing fans that behind the powerful serves and fierce forehands are two people who simply "get each other." As they continue to chase titles and rankings, their journey together remains one of the most genuine and compelling stories in tennis today.