After an outstanding junior and professional career that left an indelible mark on the sport, JTCC alumnus Denis Kudla has officially retired from tennis after an impressive 14 years on the tour.
The first JTCC player to compete on the ATP tour, Kudla quickly gained attention as a junior in 2008 when he won the prestigious Orange Bowl 16’s, defeating fellow JTCC player Mitchell Frank, and ending the year ranked #3 in the ITF World Junior rankings.
His success continued as he reached the US Open Boys’ Singles finals in 2010 before transitioning to the ATP Tour as a professional.
Throughout his tennis career, Kudla celebrated several significant milestones, including breaking into the Top 100 at age 20 and reaching a career-high ranking of #53 in singles in 2016. Recognized for his powerful serve and strong baseline game, Kudla won nine ATP Challenger Tour titles over his career and had the honor of representing Team USA at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
In 2015, Kudla attained his best Grand Slam result, advancing to the 4th round of Wimbledon before being defeated by US Open champion Marin Čilić.
Reflecting on his career in an Instagram post after his final match, in which he teamed with Desirae Krawczyk to help the United States sweep win the doubles semifinals of the United Cup, Kudla expressed his gratitude: “I could have never imagined what this life could give me and where it has brought me,” Kudla stated. “A blonde-haired, backwards hat-wearing kid from the DMV going on to be a professional tennis player! I am forever grateful to this sport I love.”
Two-time US Open semifinalist and JTCC alumnus Frances Tiafoe, who looked up to Kudla while training together as juniors at JTCC, paid tribute to his friend on social media.
“I really appreciate you bro, more than you can ever imagine. You truly helped me believe that being a pro can be a reality,” he wrote. “Thanks for giving me game and support as a youngin and still to this day. Nothing but love for you baldhead Kudla.”
While Kudla might be done competing in tennis, he certainly remains close to the sport. He began the newest chapter of his tennis career in December, agreeing to coach fellow American Reilly Opelka. Kudla’s influence has already been noticeable, as Opelka recently defeated 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic 7-6(6), 6-3 in the quarterfinals of the Brisbane International.
JTCC President Vesa Ponkka, who witnessed Kudla’s growth as a junior, remarked on his legacy:
“Denis was one of the most important players we have ever had at JTCC. He established the work ethic, discipline, and professional mindset that define a player at JTCC. He decided at a very young age that he wanted to become a great player, and he worked tirelessly every day to make that happen.”
