Polish tennis player Hubert Hurkacz is making a lot of rounds on social media. All thanks to his impressive performance at the Monte Carlo Open. This player kicked off this year by winning 18 matches from the 26 ones he attended, ending up as a runner-up at the United Cup. Not to forget that he reached the world’s number-eighth position this January. Forget “born talent” – there might be more to Hubi’s tennis prowess than meets the eye.

Hubert Hurkacz was born to Krzysztof Hurkacz and Zosia Maliszewska-Hurkacz in February 1997 in Wroclaw. Being the former number-one junior tennis player in Poland, Hurcaz’s mother motivated this ATP star to play tennis at the age of five. Watching Roger Federer play on TV lit a fire in Hubert’s heart, inspiring him to pick up a racket. Interestingly, this ATP star defeated Roger Federer at Wimbledon’s Quarterfinals in 2021.

Hubert Hurkacz’s strong foundation comes from both sides of the family. His father, Krzysztof, a computer specialist, coached him from a young age, shaping his development. His mother, Zosia Maliszewska-Hurkacz, a nurse, has been a constant source of support, attending matches and offering unwavering encouragement.

Hubert Hurkacz also has a younger sibling, Nika, who is ten years younger than Hurkacz. Currently into playing tennis, Nika aspires to be a professional like her brother in the future. In fact, Hurkacz’s one of his uncles, Tomasz Maliszewski, played tennis professionally. Not only that but his grandfather was an international volleyball player. This means athleticism literally runs in this Poland-based tennis player’s blood.

According to a reliable source, Hubert Hurkacz once said- “The (sporting) genes, the motivation in the family, the love for the sport. I think they have helped me a lot.” Hubert’s statement is a testament to the inspiration he received from his family and how it worked as a fueling factor for his incredible hard work. Given that Hurkacz still lives in his hometown, it means that he has a deep respect for his country as well.

Moreover, Hurkacz’s bond was quite visible in his long-typed message last year post Rolex Shanghai Masters.

Hubert Hurkacz felt super grateful for having his family by his side last year

In a heart-stopping final, Hubert Hurkacz rallied from a match point down to defeat Andrey Rublev 6-3, 3-6, 7-6(8) and capture his second ATP Masters 1000 title at the Rolex Shanghai Masters 2023. After the heartfelt win, Hubert put up a post on Instagram thanking his family and team for believing in him.

“This one feels special. This season hasn’t been the easiest but I never stopped working and believing in myself. Thanks to everyone who’s by my side, from my family and my team to everyone cheering in the crowds and in front of the tv. It really means a lot and I’m super grateful. Thank you @rolexshmasters 🙌” At the same time, he also poured birthday wishes to her Grandma, “Happy birthday Grandma 😊”

After all, a family’s support can be the greatest reward in someone’s life.

Read more: ATP Estoril Open: Hubert Hurkacz vs. Cristian Garín Preview; Head-to-Head, and Prediction