Nissa Lindholm

Written by Nissa Lindholm

Published: 01 Jun 2025

15-facts-about-reilly-opelka
Source: Thetennisgazette.com

Reilly Opelka is a name that resonates in the tennis world. Standing at a towering 6 feet 11 inches, he’s one of the tallest players ever to grace the court. But there's more to him than just his height. Born on August 28, 1997, in St. Joseph, Michigan, Reilly has made significant strides in his career. He turned pro in 2015 and quickly became known for his powerful serve. Did you know he won his first ATP title in 2019 at the New York Open? Beyond tennis, Reilly has a keen interest in art and fashion, often seen sporting trendy outfits. Curious about his journey and achievements? Keep reading to uncover 15 fascinating facts about this tennis star!

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Reilly Opelka, an American tennis player, has made waves in the tennis world with his towering presence and powerful serve. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about this remarkable athlete.

  1. Born on August 28, 1997, in St. Joseph, Michigan, Reilly Opelka moved to Palm Coast, Florida, at age four. This move was pivotal for his tennis career.

  2. His father, George Opelka, played a significant role in his early tennis training. George's dedication and support helped shape Reilly's career.

  3. Reilly's height is a standout feature. At 6 feet 11 inches, he is one of the tallest players on the ATP Tour. This height gives him a unique advantage on the court.

Tennis Career Beginnings

Reilly's journey in professional tennis began at a young age, and he quickly made a name for himself with his impressive skills and determination.

  1. In 2015, Reilly won the Wimbledon Boys' Singles title. This victory was a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his potential on the international stage.

  2. He turned professional in 2015, and by 2016, he had already made his mark by reaching the semifinals of the Atlanta Open. This early success hinted at his future potential.

  3. Reilly's first ATP title came in 2019 at the New York Open. This victory was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport.

Playing Style and Strengths

Reilly Opelka's playing style is characterized by his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play. These attributes have made him a formidable opponent on the court.

  1. Known for his powerful serve, Reilly often clocks serves at over 140 mph. This serve is one of his most potent weapons, earning him numerous aces in matches.

  2. Despite his height, Reilly is surprisingly agile on the court. His movement and footwork have improved significantly over the years, making him a well-rounded player.

  3. Reilly's aggressive baseline play and powerful groundstrokes put pressure on his opponents, often forcing errors and creating opportunities for him to dominate rallies.

Achievements and Records

Reilly Opelka has achieved several milestones in his career, setting records and earning accolades along the way.

  1. In 2021, Reilly reached his career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 19. This ranking reflects his consistent performance and success on the tour.

  2. He holds the record for the most aces in a three-set match, with 43 aces against John Isner at the 2019 Australian Open. This record highlights his serving prowess.

  3. Reilly has also made significant strides in doubles, winning his first ATP doubles title at the 2021 Atlanta Open alongside Jannik Sinner.

Off-Court Interests and Personality

Beyond the tennis court, Reilly Opelka has a range of interests and a unique personality that endears him to fans.

  1. Reilly is an avid art enthusiast. He often visits art galleries and enjoys collecting contemporary art pieces, showcasing his creative side.

  2. He has a strong presence on social media, where he shares insights into his life, training, and interests. His candid and humorous posts have garnered a loyal following.

  3. Reilly is known for his laid-back and approachable demeanor. Despite his towering presence, he remains humble and grounded, making him a favorite among fans and peers alike.

Final Serve

Reilly Opelka's journey in tennis is nothing short of fascinating. Standing at 6'11", he's one of the tallest players on the ATP Tour, making his serve a formidable weapon. Born in St. Joseph, Michigan, Opelka moved to Florida at age four, where he began his tennis training. He turned pro in 2015 and quickly made a name for himself with his powerful serve and aggressive play. Despite his height, Opelka is surprisingly agile on the court, showcasing impressive footwork and stamina. Off the court, he's known for his love of art and fashion, often seen sporting unique outfits. His career highlights include multiple ATP titles and a deep run at the 2021 US Open. As he continues to climb the rankings, Opelka remains a player to watch, blending raw power with finesse. Keep an eye on this towering talent.

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