Local tennis star Abi Redman is going places. We caught up with the Merseyside teenager about getting her big break at The Liverpool International Tennis Tournament, her plans to progress her career in New York, and the importance of self-belief.
Congratulations on your win at the Liverpool Tennis Centre. How did it feel to come through such a close final?
Thank you! Going into the match, I knew it would be tough, but I had to be confident and play without fear. I played a great match, but even with me hitting 40 unreturnable serves, we still went to a third-set tiebreak.
Coming through that match felt surreal for days. I had worked towards it for years and was so proud to accomplish it finally.
What was going through your head during that final set tiebreaker?
My opponent had the break in the third set, and she had a match point, so I was happy that I could take her to a tiebreak! I had to forget the score and the circumstance – I just had to take it one point at a time and focus on things I could control, like making first serves and staying consistent.
Of course, I was nervous, but I had to stay confident and back my ability. After that, whatever happens, happens. I can still picture the final ball dropping just beyond the baseline and seeing my Mum’s face popping up after thinking I was there by myself.
You’ve played at Liverpool Tennis Centre before. How does this victory compare to past experiences there?
I’ve had some of my best results at Liverpool Tennis Centre. The courts are fast and suit my game, allowing me to use my power and be aggressive. I won my first Tennis Europe title there and now my first ITF singles title. Thanks to Anders, I was able to compete in U18 ITFs far earlier than I would’ve expected, which allowed me to compete against some of the best girls in the world and let me see how I could improve my game.
That said, this victory cannot be compared to my previous experiences there. To win my first ITF singles title at my home tournament was so special and something I will never forget.
Your international journey started with a wildcard from the Liverpool Junior International Tournament. Can you tell us more about how that opportunity came about and what it meant at the time?
I played my first ITF main draw in Liverpool in 2022, thanks to a wildcard from Anders. It felt great to have somebody believing in me and giving me the opportunity to play at a much higher level, as getting started and winning ranking points is very difficult on the ITF circuit.
What lessons have you learned on the junior international circuit?
I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to travel the world playing tennis. One of the most uncomfortable but important lessons I have learned is that tennis is a brutal sport. Sometimes, you need to look out for yourself before you look out for others, which doesn’t come naturally to me.
I’ve learned how vital self-belief is when playing at these high levels. The difference between winning and losing can be a single point, which can be disheartening.
I’ve found it’s more important to focus on the bigger picture. Although winning matches is nice, my goal was to improve so that I could get a Division 1 Scholarship to America, which I have done.
Were there any specific moments where you thought, “I can make it in this sport”?
I have always been encouraged to be realistic. Tennis, especially, is an incredibly difficult sport to get to the top of, and this is why I chose the American University route. When I was playing and winning a lot last season, it opened my eyes to how good I could be if I could train and compete daily, like most other players at my level.
My win at Liverpool made me think I could make it in tennis if I continued to be driven and work hard towards my goal.
You’re set to compete in this year’s Liverpool International. How special is it to return as a local player?
I’m so excited to come back to the Liverpool International this year. It is an event unlike any other I have played in so far in my career. The atmosphere is so fun, and I love playing on grass. Growing up locally, my Granddad used to umpire at this event so I used to come and watch, hoping one day I would also play here.
You’ve gone from wildcard entry to a world ranking of around 600. Does your story help showcase the importance of investing in young talent at events like this?
Investing in young talent is incredibly important. It’s especially difficult to progress in the North as there are nowhere near as many opportunities as in the South. Having someone like Anders to support you with Wild Cards can help with confidence and progress my game to what it is today.
What are you most looking forward to at this year’s tournament?
I can’t wait to play in front of a crowd on the grass – hopefully in the sunshine.
You’re heading to the U.S. to play Division 1 tennis in New York. What led you to choose that path, and what are you most excited (or nervous) about?
As soon as I heard that going to a university in America was a potential pathway for tennis players, my mind was set on attending a Division 1 college.
My area lacks training facilities and opportunities to the level that I require. Since I began playing internationally, I have seen the difference between myself and others who train daily and compete most weeks. This is not viable for me here as I am in full-time education, so I wanted to go to America, even though it is nerve-racking to be so far from home.
The facilities and support I witnessed at my university were unlike anything in the UK. Going there means I have everything I need to be able to train every day and compete regularly. I can’t wait to get out there, make the most of it, and see how good I can be.
How do you think college tennis will help you grow as a player and a person?
Up to now, tennis has been a very individual sport. The support staff, coaches, and team at my university have already been incredibly supportive and have made the signing process easy. This was one of the reasons I chose St John’s, as they promoted many values that I agree with, like hard work and community.
I am excited to start with my new coach and team out there as they are a very supportive, driven group that will help me to become a better player and person. I love competing in teams, and I can’t wait for the loud, energetic atmosphere of college tennis.
Are there any non-tennis things you’re hoping to explore while in the States?
Yes! I love to travel and look forward to visiting many States with my team and friends who are already in America or planning on visiting me. Being in New York, I can’t wait to explore Manhattan and Broadway and branch out to cities like Washington DC and Chicago. While out there, I plan to tick off as many States as possible.
When you’re not training or competing, how do you switch off?
Music is a huge part of my life. I have achieved 8 Grades and 2 Diplomas in singing for the London College of Music. I don’t go anywhere without my headphones. I also love to watch TV and films, my favourite programme is the Office U.S.
What advice would you give aspiring tennis players?
Believe in yourself. Tennis is a brutal sport; if you don’t, nobody will.
Play your game, and don’t be afraid to lose. And have fun! Leave everything out on the court and enjoy doing what you love.
Quick-fire questions.
Favourite surface? Indoor acrylic or grass
Dream doubles partner? Carlos Alcaraz or Neil Skupski.
Pre-match ritual or superstition? Listening to music. I have to step over lines with my right foot.
Go-to post-match snack? Popcorn
