Today’s Q&A brings us into the world of Katherine Hui, a San Diego-born professional tennis player whose journey has taken her from youth tennis to two years at Stanford to now playing professionally. At Stanford, she earned Pac-12 Freshman of the Year for the 2023-2024 season and in September 2023, she captured the US Open girls’ singles championship at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York. Hui was awarded a wild card entry into the main draw of the San Diego Open taking place this Tuesday through Sunday at Barnes Tennis Center. Get your tickets today and use code HERSPORTS20.
Katherine Hui competing for Stanford University
What does it mean to you to compete in the San Diego Open as a Solana Beach local?
I grew up playing tournaments at Barnes. From 7 and under round robins to national championships finals, the courts hold so many of my junior tennis memories. Being able to compete here the San Diego Open at home is such a dream.
Being able to compete here the San Diego Open at home is such a dream.
Winning the 2023 US Open Girls Singles was a huge milestone. How has it helped define and shape your tennis career?
Winning singles at the Junior US Open was definitely the biggest moment of my tennis career. I always believed in myself and my game, but winning that title boosted my confidence in knowing that I could compete with the best. During the tournament, I was playing some of my best tennis, and it was amazing to see all the work I had done during juniors come together. I always knew I wanted to play professionally, after the tournament it made me even more motivated to keep working for that goal.
Katherine Hui as a youngster
Katherine Hui
Where in San Diego did you train, and what influence did that training have on you?
I practiced a lot at Barnes, but grew up training all around San Diego. My parents didn’t know much about tennis but I got really lucky to have found some amazing coaches that believed in me and shaped my game. San Diego also has many great players and competition, so I was really grateful for that.
I got really lucky to have found some amazing coaches that believed in me and shaped my game.
What are you most excited about right now in this next chapter of your career?
Recently I’ve made a big step to leave college and pursue tennis professionally. It has been scary because I feel like it’s the first time in my life where I have no idea what’s going to happen next. But I think that’s the most exciting part of this process; I get to figure things out as I go, embrace the uncertainty, and be bold in chasing after my goals.
What’s one thing fans might be surprised to know about how you prepare for a tournament?
I feel like I don’t do anything crazy or too unconventional to prepare for a tournament. I like to find a good balance between locking in and being relaxed. I love to read a book (current one is When Breath Becomes Air) or journal to help relax my mind and get in the zone.
Katherine Hui
