Olga Danilovic has spoken openly about the challenges of growing up under the spotlight, the weight of expectations, and how she rediscovered her passion for tennis after periods of fear and burnout.
Early pressure and media attention
Danilovic rose to prominence at just 17 when she won the Moscow River Cup, becoming the first player born in the 2000s to claim a WTA title. That success brought immediate attention and comparisons, which she admits were difficult to handle. “What happens when you’re labelled ‘the next big thing’ at just 17?” she reflected. The hype created pressure that often overshadowed her ability to enjoy the sport.
Family influence and expectations
Growing up as the daughter of Predrag “Saša” Danilović, a celebrated basketball star and president of the Serbian Basketball Federation, Olga was surrounded by sporting excellence. While her father’s career inspired her, it also added expectations. She explained that being part of a famous sporting family meant constant comparisons and scrutiny, which sometimes made her journey more complicated.
Burnout and fear
Danilovic admitted that the combination of media attention and personal expectations led to moments of burnout. She described how fear of failure and the pressure to live up to her early success affected her confidence.
Rebuilding love for tennis
Despite the struggles, Danilovic has worked to rebuild her relationship with the sport. She emphasized the importance of finding joy in the game again, focusing on the process rather than external expectations. “I had to learn to separate myself from the hype and remember why I started playing. Tennis has always been my love, and I needed to reconnect with that,”
she explained.Now competing again with renewed energy, Danilovic is determined to balance ambition with self-care. She acknowledges that pressure will always exist but insists that her priority is to enjoy the sport and grow at her own pace. Her story highlights the resilience required to navigate professional tennis when defined by early success and constant attention.
Olga Danilovic in 2025
Ranked no.67, Danilovic played her last match on the 17th of October when she lost to world no.60 Tereza Valentova 4-6 6-2 6-3 in the quarter in Osaka (draw).
This season Danilovic owns a composed 23-17 record. Olga conquered 1 title in the Antalya. Danilovic got to the final in Rouen.