Maret Ani, Estonian tennis player

Maret Ani, born on January 31, 1982, is a distinguished former professional tennis player who proudly represented Estonia on the international stage. Ani enjoyed a remarkable career marked by significant achievements in both singles and doubles, establishing herself as one of Estonia's most prominent athletes in the sport.

At the outset of 2006, Ani reached a pivotal point in her career, achieving the prestigious distinction of being the top-ranked female tennis player in Estonia. This period highlighted her growing influence and consistent performance within the sport. She maintained this leading position for a considerable time before the spot was eventually taken over by fellow Estonian tennis sensation, Kaia Kanepi. Kanepi, known for her powerful game and Grand Slam quarter-final appearances, subsequently became another face of Estonian tennis, showcasing the nation's rising talent in the sport.

Ani's journey into professional tennis was unconventional. Before dedicating herself to the sport, she was a highly accomplished junior basketball champion, demonstrating her innate athleticism and competitive spirit from an early age. However, at the age of 14, Ani made the pivotal decision to commit fully to tennis, recognizing her potential and passion for the individual sport. This transition marked the beginning of her intensive training. Just three years later, at the age of 17, Ani made a significant move to Italy. This relocation was made possible by securing crucial sponsorship for her coaching and development, a testament to her talent and the belief others had in her future. In Italy, she honed her skills under the guidance of experienced coaches, initially with Aita Põldma, and later with the renowned Pierfrancesco Restelli, who helped shape her into a world-class competitor.

Ani's dedication to representing her country was evident early in her career. She made her debut for the Estonia Fed Cup team in 1998, a significant milestone for any aspiring national player. The Fed Cup, now known as the Billie Jean King Cup, is the premier international team competition in women's tennis, and Ani's consistent participation over many years underscored her commitment to Estonian tennis.

Professional Career Highlights

Retirement and Legacy

Maret Ani officially announced her retirement from professional tennis in 2011, concluding a career that spanned over a decade at the top level. Her contributions to Estonian tennis, particularly in paving the way for future generations alongside players like Kaia Kanepi, remain a significant part of the nation's sporting history. Ani's journey from a junior basketball champion to a top-ranked tennis player exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maret Ani

When was Maret Ani born?
Maret Ani was born on January 31, 1982.
What was Maret Ani's highest singles ranking?
Maret Ani achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 63 on May 15, 2006.
Did Maret Ani win any WTA titles?
Yes, Maret Ani won two WTA Tour doubles titles during her professional career.
When did Maret Ani first play for the Estonia Fed Cup team?
Maret Ani made her debut for the Estonia Fed Cup team in 1998.
Where did Maret Ani train during her junior years?
After switching from basketball to tennis, Maret Ani moved to Italy at the age of 17 to receive professional coaching, supported by sponsorship.