Victoria Mboko, the promising young Canadian tennis player, recently shared her inspiring experience with tennis legend Serena Williams during the Queen’s Club Championships held in London. Speaking in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Mboko expressed her gratitude for the wisdom she gained from Williams, particularly in the face of adversity. Their interaction centred on the importance of viewing injuries not just as setbacks but also as valuable opportunities for self-assessment and growth.
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The 20-year-old athlete collaborated with Dove to promote their Body Confident Sport initiative, aimed at empowering young female athletes. This partnership came at a pivotal moment for Mboko, who suffered a left knee injury during the tournament. Despite this setback, the excitement of competing alongside her idol, Williams, marked a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. The event also marked Williams’ return to professional tennis after a hiatus since the 2022 US Open.
Reflecting on her time with Williams, Mboko recounted the inspirational message conveyed by the former world number one. “She told me that she had faced injuries in her career that significantly impacted her performance,” Mboko revealed. “It’s not uncommon in sports, and it’s a part of the game. These moments should be seen as a chance to reassess and improve aspects of our game that might have been lacking.”
Mboko elaborated on how such interruptions can serve as moments of reflection and rejuvenation. “While these injuries can feel like a step back, they also allow for honest self-evaluation and personal development,” she noted. “I’m eager to get back on the court, with new goals and aspirations that I am determined to achieve,” she added optimistically.
Despite having to withdraw from the competition due to her injury, Mboko remains focused on her recovery and future ambitions. “This experience has given me a new perspective on recovery. Instead of viewing it merely as a setback, I see it as a pathway towards greater achievements ahead,” she stated.
The Canadian tennis player’s collaboration with Dove is not just about her personal growth; it also aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges young female athletes face. “I resonate deeply with Dove’s mission and values, and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Body Confident Sport programme,” she said. “My hope is to inspire young girls to build their self-esteem and encourage them to pursue their passion for sports.”
Mboko’s rapid progression in the world of tennis is nothing short of remarkable. She claimed her first WTA 1000 title at the age of 18 during the 2025 National Bank Open in Montreal, defeating four Grand Slam winners along the way, a feat that underscored her rising star status. By February this year, she had already broken into the Top 10 of the WTA rankings, becoming the fastest player to achieve this milestone from a Top 200 debut since 1990.
As she reflects on her accomplishments, the experience of partnering with Williams remains a highlight of her career. “It was surreal,” she expressed. “Just being on the court with someone I’ve idolised my entire life and who played a pivotal role in my journey into tennis felt incredibly special. It was truly an honour to play alongside her.”
Mboko cites Williams’ physical strength and resilience as attributes she admires and aspires to emulate in her own game. “She has inspired me significantly, especially as someone who has faced numerous challenges throughout her career,” Mboko explained. “Our conversations not only motivated me but also helped bolster my self-confidence.”
In conclusion, Victoria Mboko represents a new generation of female athletes who are eager to learn and grow. Through her partnership with Dove and her reflections on her experiences with Williams, she is not only charting her own path in tennis but also paving the way for others to follow. As she prepares to return to the court, her resolve to overcome obstacles and her commitment to empowering young athletes stands as a testament to her character and potential.