Early Life & Background
Karolina Pliskova was born on March 21, 1992, in Louny, Czech Republic. She has an identical twin sister, Kristyna, who is also a professional tennis player β making them one of the most famous twin pairs in sports. The sisters were introduced to tennis at age 4 and both pursued professional careers.
Pliskova trained at the Czech Tennis Federation's academy and quickly established herself as one of the most talented young players in the country.
Playing Style
Pliskova is the definition of a serve-dominant player. At 186 cm (6'1"), she possesses one of the biggest serves in women's tennis, regularly hitting aces at will. She led the WTA in aces for multiple seasons and holds the record for most aces in a single US Open.
Her game is built around her serve and flat, powerful groundstrokes. She takes the ball early, plays close to the baseline, and tries to end points quickly. Movement has been the area she's worked hardest to improve, and her court coverage has gotten significantly better over the years.
Career Highlights
- World No. 1 β reached the top ranking in 2017
- 2016 US Open Finalist β lost to Angelique Kerber in a tight final
- 2021 Wimbledon Finalist β lost to Ashleigh Barty, reaching her second Grand Slam final five years after her first
- 16 career titles
- Multiple Fed Cup/Billie Jean King Cup titles with Czech Republic
- Led the WTA in aces in 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017
Twin Sister Rivalry
The Pliskova twins have a unique dynamic in tennis. While Karolina reached No. 1, Kristyna peaked at No. 35. They have played doubles together and against each other in singles β creating fascinating storylines. The twins are close off the court and often practice together.
Personal Life
Pliskova married Michal Hrdlicka, the CEO of the Czech Tennis Association, in 2018. Their relationship brought together two prominent figures in Czech tennis. She is known for her calm, stoic demeanor on court β rarely showing emotion during matches.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Karolina Pliskova
- Country: Czech Republic π¨πΏ
- Born: March 21, 1992 (age 34)
- Height: 186 cm (6'1")
- Hand: Right-handed
- Career Titles: 16
- Grand Slam Best: Finalist (US Open 2016, Wimbledon 2021)
- Highest Ranking: No. 1
- Twin Sister: Kristyna Pliskova (also WTA player)