Carole Monnet's Emotional Journey from Ukraine to TPL Glory with Hyderabad Strikers

Rising French tennis sensation Carole Monnet has been a standout for defending champions Hyderabad Strikers in Season 7 of the Tennis Premier League.

The 24-year-old has dominated her Women's Singles round-robin ties, securing victories in all matches so far. She recently opened up about her emotional path from Ukraine to France, her deep appreciation for her adoptive parents, and her drive to motivate young children globally. Monnet, who has graced major international tournaments and qualified for the main draw at Roland Garros 2025-her home Grand Slam-continues to shine.

Originally from Ukraine, Monnet was adopted by French parents at age two and relocated to France. Reflecting on her fortune, she emphasized, "They changed my entire life. With

everything happening in Ukraine today, I don't know what my story would have been if I had stayed there. I am very lucky because my parents made my dreams possible, and now I can travel the world and play tennis. I want little boys and little girls to know that if you are lucky, you have to take it and work hard every day. If you don't give up and you keep fighting, you can make it. "

Monnet discovered tennis at eight after initially trying athletics. Her passion ignited while watching Novak Djokovic at Roland Garros on TV. "I loved tennis immediately because it has everything - fitness, tactics and both physical and mental skill," she recalled.

Now world No. 166, Monnet has delivered flawless performances in TPL Women's Singles for Hyderabad Strikers, posting wins of 18-7, 14-11, and 16-9 to propel her team to an early lead. She credits the league's format for her success: "The format actually fits my game perfectly. I like to play a few strong shots, focus on my first serve, come to the net and put pressure during short rallies, so I didn't need to adapt too much. "

Monnet also raved about the Ahmedabad venue. "I really love the surface, the colours, the lights, the stadium and the crowd. Indian people are very nice and welcoming. Everything here feels like a real show. The sports complex has great facilities, even clay courts, and if young players here keep practicing, working hard and travelling, I am sure many professionals will come from here. "

She highlighted the camaraderie at Hyderabad Strikers: "I love the team atmosphere here at the Hyderabad Strikers. On the circuit you are alone and always in your bubble, but here it feels like a family. If I need something, they help me and I want to help them too. It's much more open and supportive than being alone on tour. "