LONDON — Tatjana Maria, the 36-year-old German tennis veteran, has revealed that her 11-year-old daughter Charlotte is the driving force behind her decision to delay retirement after a triumphant run at the Rothesay International in Eastbourne. Maria, who won her third WTA title at the grass-court event, admitted that her daughter’s dream of turning pro and playing doubles together has reignited her passion for the sport.
Maria, a mother of two, has long balanced motherhood with her professional career, but her latest victory at Queen’s Club has taken on special significance. "Charlotte told me, ‘Mama, I want to play with you on tour one day,’" Maria shared in her post-match press conference. "That’s why I keep going."
A Family Affair on the Court
Maria’s journey in tennis has always been intertwined with her family. She took a break from the sport in 2013 to give birth to Charlotte and returned to the tour with renewed determination. Now, her daughter is following in her footsteps, training seriously and even serving as a hitting partner during practice sessions.
Maria’s husband, Charles-Edouard Maria, who also serves as her coach, has been instrumental in managing both her career and their children’s budding interest in tennis. "We’re a team," Maria said. "Charlotte loves being around the courts, and it’s amazing to see her passion grow."
Charlotte’s Aspirations
At just 11 years old, Charlotte Maria has already set her sights on a professional career. She trains regularly and has competed in junior tournaments, showing promise with her technique and competitive spirit. Maria admits that her daughter’s enthusiasm has been contagious.
"She watches my matches, studies my opponents, and even gives me advice," Maria laughed. "Sometimes she’s tougher than my coach!"
The possibility of a mother-daughter doubles pairing is no longer a far-fetched dream. Maria, currently ranked No. 65 in the world, has already extended her career longer than many expected, and Charlotte’s ambition adds another layer of motivation.
Key Moments in Maria’s Comeback
- 2013: Took a break from tennis to give birth to Charlotte.
- 2017: Returned to the tour, climbing back into the top 100.
- 2022: Reached the Wimbledon semifinals as a mother of two, inspiring working parents worldwide.
- 2024: Won the Rothesay International, her third WTA title, at age 36.
The Challenges of Balancing Motherhood and Tennis
Maria’s story is a testament to resilience. Unlike many athletes who retire in their early 30s, she has defied expectations, proving that motherhood and elite sports can coexist. However, the journey hasn’t been without sacrifices.
"Traveling with kids is not easy, but it’s worth it," Maria said. "I want them to see that dreams don’t have an expiration date."
Her success has resonated with fans, particularly working parents who see her as a role model. Maria’s ability to compete at the highest level while raising a family has shattered stereotypes in a sport often dominated by younger players.
What’s Next for the Maria Family?
With Charlotte’s ambitions fueling her, Maria has no plans to retire anytime soon. She aims to compete in the 2024 US Open and beyond, with the hope of sharing the court with her daughter in the future.
"If Charlotte keeps improving, who knows? Maybe in a few years, we’ll be playing doubles together," Maria said with a smile. "That’s the dream."
For now, Maria remains focused on her own career while nurturing her daughter’s talent. Her story is a reminder that tennis isn’t just about rankings and trophies—it’s about legacy, family, and the love of the game.