Teenager Victoria Mboko Shines in Rome, Eyes Top Players

ROME, ITA — At just 18 years old, Canadian tennis player Victoria Mboko is making waves on the WTA circuit with an impressive 33-3 record this season. Starting the year ranked No. 333, she secured two ITF titles in the Caribbean and has climbed to No. 156 in the world.

On a sunny afternoon at the Foro Italico, Mboko, who politely apologized mid-interview after a nearby outburst of laughter, is anything but uncertain on the court. “I just needed to be more confident in myself,” she reflected, attributing part of her success to a positive mindset and a string of victories that boosted her confidence.

Mboko’s recent performances caught the attention of the WTA, earning her a wild card into the Miami Open. There, she captured her first Top 100 win over Camila Osorio, followed by a close match against Paula Badosa. This week in Rome, she continued her success by defeating Cristina Bucsa and Kamilla Rakhimova during the qualifying rounds.

With a first-round win against wild card Arianna Zucchini, Mboko is set to face No. 4 seed Coco Gauff in a primetime matchup on Friday. “Look around! It’s such great vibes. The facilities are so beautiful. I’m in Rome!” she exclaimed, thrilled by the opportunity.

Mboko is known for her powerful style and ability to control matches. However, she is also honing her defensive game under the guidance of former pro Nathalie Tauziat. “I feel very relaxed and calm with her,” Mboko said, appreciating Tauziat’s experience and advice. “She wants me to come more to the net and be more all-around, so that if any situation comes up in the match, I’m there and I’m prepared for it.”

The youngest of four siblings, each with tennis backgrounds, Mboko began playing at the age of three. Her family’s legacy fuels her ambition, though she humorously admits, “I’ve actually never beaten any of them.” Currently, her parents, Cyprien and Godee, who immigrated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, instill pride in her heritage.

Despite her rapid rise, Mboko remains humble and grounded, often reminiscing about her inspirations, including watching legends like Serena and Venus Williams during her childhood in Toronto. “I used to see how the pros are, and I was in so much awe of them,” she shared.

As she gears up for her match with Gauff, Mboko welcomes the support from former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu, who encourages young players like her to connect and grow in the sport. “I’m always rooting for Vicky,” Andreescu said, recognizing Mboko’s strong and aggressive playing style.

Mboko’s journey is just beginning, but with her talent and determination, she aims to make her mark on the world of tennis.