Maryna Zanevska is a former WTA professional tennis player who reached a career-high singles ranking of World No. 62 and competed at the highest level of the sport, including the US Open.
In this episode, Maryna opens up about the unseen reality of professional tennis - from financial insecurity and extreme external pressure at a young age, to identity loss, sponsorship disputes, and the psychological cost of chasing elite performance.
It’s an honest look at what life is really like beyond rankings, prize money, and centre-court matches - and how reclaiming self-belief changed everything.
Key topics discussed:
• The hidden financial struggle of professional tennis and why only the top players truly survive
• Signing a sponsorship contract at 11 and the pressure it placed on her family
• A legal dispute that escalated into real-world threats• Growing up playing tennis for others, not herself
• Why motivation can become a trap at elite levels
• Losing self-belief - and how she slowly rebuilt it
• Identity crisis after retirement and life beyond tennis
• Why mindset, not talent, ultimately extended her career
Follow Maryna here: @marinazanevska
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*Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed in this podcast are my own and do not represent those of any employer, organization or affiliate. I am not a licensed expert, and all discussions are based on personal experiences, insights, and publicly available information. This content is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always do your own research and seek guidance from qualified professionals where necessary. Listener discretion is advised.