Auger-Aliassime Mentors Mboko’s Rise Before Australian Open

Canadian tennis player Félix Auger-Aliassime reflects on the rapid rise of 19-year-old Victoria Mboko as she prepares for the upcoming Australian Open. Auger-Aliassime, at 25, recognizes the overwhelming changes that young athletes face, having experienced similar challenges early in his career.

Auger-Aliassime’s Guidance for Mboko

Auger-Aliassime understands the pressure that comes with success. He mentions that once someone reaches the elite level, perceptions of them shift dramatically if they begin to struggle. He emphasizes the importance of staying grounded and having a support system that provides honest feedback.

“You go out there and still have to compete with players who want to beat you,” Auger-Aliassime said. “Tennis humbles you quickly.” His advice serves as an encouraging reminder for Mboko as she navigates her professional journey.

Victoria Mboko’s Impressive Rise

• Initial Ranking: Started the 2025 season ranked No. 333.
• Achievements: Won the National Bank Open in Toronto and climbed into the WTA top 20.
• Rolex Ambassadorship: Secured a prestigious ambassadorship as recognition of her success.

Despite her rapid ascent, Mboko remains level-headed. “So many things have changed in the past year, but I feel like I haven’t really changed that much, personality-wise,” she remarked. This balanced approach is essential as she moves forward in her career.

The New Faces of Tennis

At the Australian Open, Mboko is featured alongside other rising talents like Mirra Andreeva, Jack Draper, and Joao Fonseca. This year marks a significant milestone for Mboko as she embarks on her first trip to Australia as a professional.

Navigating Pressure and Expectations

Mboko recognizes the nerves that accompany her matches, which can occasionally affect her performance. She aims to improve her consistency on the tour as she transitions from being an underdog to a player with heightened expectations.

Auger-Aliassime advises that embracing and learning from each experience is crucial. “Even at 25, there’s not any match that really scares me,” he noted, reminding Mboko that growth is a continuous process.

Looking Ahead to the Australian Open

As the Australian Open approaches, all eyes will be on both Auger-Aliassime and Mboko. While Auger-Aliassime seeks his first Grand Slam title, it is a new chapter for Mboko, where she will experience the pressures of being a sought-after competitor.

This year, with so much at stake and the spotlight on her, she is prepared to learn and evolve. As she stated, “the goal is to be more consistent and find my place on the tour.”