ITF

Linda and Brenda Fruhvirtova starred as Czech Republic were crowned ITF World Junior Tennis girls' champions this summer. ITFWorld finds out more about the sisters who have been tipped for a big future. By Ross McLean J U N I O R S WHEN CONSIDERING FAMOUS SIBLINGS TO HAVE IMPACTED THE SPORTING WORLD ONLY ONE PAIR OF FEMALE SISTERS TEND TO MAKE the higher echelons, although the exploits of Serena and Venus Williams trump most of their male counterparts. While it is imperative to acknowledge that their tennis journey remains in its infancy, should a similar poll be conducted in two decade's time then maybe, just maybe, the surname Fruhvirtova may feature prominently. The Fruhvirtova sisters, Linda and Brenda, are only 14 and 12 years old respectively but they are already making their presence felt to such an extent that the tennis glitterati are sitting up and taking notice of the prodigiously talented duo. Linda has ruffled many a feather this season, often bruising the egos of considerably older opponents, and she was the youngest player to feature at Wimbledon as she reached the second round at The Junior Championships. The Czech also progressed to the semi-finals of the prestigious JA Milan in May before making her Junior Grand Slam debut at Roland Garros, while a junior world ranking of No. 16 reflects her standing in the game. Despite her tender years, Linda would certainly appear to know her own mind. When asked about her aims for the future, she tells ITFWorld: "To be world No. 1 and win Grand Slams." Far from evident in just one, potentially throwaway, line, there is a depth and authenticity to Linda's self- assuredness. "Roger Federer and Serena Williams are my favourite players, but I don't model my game on anyone. I play the way I do," she adds. Linda also took to the microphone at the closing ceremony of the ITF World Junior Tennis Finals in August following her side's victory in the girls' draw and bullishly declared that "after 16 years the trophy is back where it belongs". There is a steeliness to her character. All week in Prostejov, Czech Republic girls' Pit Bull' ' She's a The Fruhvirtova sisters proved an irresistible force in Prostejov ➝ ITFWorld // AUTUMN 2019 23 Brenda has been used to playing and beating older players during her career

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