MAX PURCELL

Written by: Bree Rizzo

Max Purcell’s journey in professional tennis is a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. Growing up in a tennis-loving family, Max picked up a racquet at age three. His early motivation was simple: winning matches and spending time outdoors, away from school. He describes, “I just love the fact that I got to do something other than sit in the classroom. I just love being in the sun, and I love competing.”

Max turned professional in 2016, and while his progression was steady, 2023 marked a breakthrough year. He broke into the ATP Top 200 in 2021, reached the Top 100 in March 2023, and achieved a career-high ATP ranking of No. 40 in October 2023.

One of Max’s most notable achievements came in 2022, when he won the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles title with fellow Australian Jordan Thompson. He also reached the finals of the 2022 Australian Open Men’s Doubles, solidifying his reputation in the doubles arena. Max’s singles success includes impressive wins over top-ranked players like Kevin Anderson and Gael Monfils, which propelled him to his first ATP Tour semifinal at Eastbourne in 2021.

Max’s breakthrough moment came at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where he replaced Andy Murray and defeated Felix Auger-Aliassime in the first round, a significant milestone in his career. These accomplishments are proof of Max’s resilience and his rise as a force in tennis.

Off the court, Max is known for his unique personality. Often described as a "huge smart arse," he embraces humour and enjoys making others laugh. His self-awareness and authenticity have endeared him to fans, making him a fan favourite. Despite his playful nature, Max is laser-focused when it comes to tennis, saying, “On court I'm all tunnel vision, really focused, and very locked in. I want to win every single point.” This dedication is at the core of his success, as he strives for improvement with every match.

Max Purcell is proving to be an athlete to watch as he continues to rise in the world of professional tennis.