Sofia Kenin reached the final of the 2020 Australian Open, shattering the hopes of the host nation with a 7-6, 7-5 win over world No. 1 and home-country favorite Ash Barty.
Following her win, the 21-year-old spoke with reporters about her self-belief, the victory over her idol that marked a turning point in her career, and why she'd love to live in New York City one day.
Q. A lot has been written about you from a young age. Did you always believe you would get to a Grand Slam final at such a young age?
Sofia Kenin: I mean, I always believed I can. Of course, I didn't have a book. I didn't know exactly when. I feel like at this young age, I think it's incredible. Not everyone gets to live this moment, live this dream. I'm just really grateful for it.
I've worked so hard. I've put all the efforts into my practices, into my fitness. All the efforts I've been doing, it's got me here. It's just paying off, and it's like a dream come true for me.
Q. Over the past 12, 13 months, from the beginning of 2019 to now, you've accomplished a lot. If you could point to one factor that you think was the biggest reason for the step up you've made, what would you say it is?
Sofia Kenin: I would say after my match against Serena [Williams], getting to the fourth round in French, oh, my God, no, third round in French. Oh, my God. I lost to Ash there, Serena third round. I feel like, after that, things just took off. I also played in an atmosphere in which they were cheering for Serena. She's my idol. Winning that match really was a lot of emotions. After that, I felt like it took off. Yeah, things just started falling into place for me.
Q. Have you thought about what it would be like if you became a major cutting-edge celebrity in our country?
Sofia Kenin: That would be amazing. I would love it. I'm still going to prepare myself. Of course, this is a lot of emotions right now. It's fine today. But tomorrow I'm going to start getting ready for the finals. I'm not done yet. I'm going to go and do everything I can to get that trophy.
Q. Caroline Wozniacki just retired. Her dad was her coach. Your father has been by your side. Talk about the dynamic of having your dad as your coach.
Sofia Kenin: Yeah, I think we just make it work. We came from a tough journey and stuff. We've had to go through some rough patches and everything. But we got here. We're so proud. I'm so happy that he's here. I get to share this moment with him. I've dreamed about this. I'm sure he's dreamed about this. I'm sure he's proud of me. We make it work. I mean, I don't know what else I can ask for. He's done the work. I've, of course, done a little bit more. I'm moving and doing everything on court.
Yeah, he's been there with me. I'm just really grateful, and I'm so happy I can share this with him. Hopefully can be something different to share.
Q. Someone told me you want to live in Manhattan. Is that right?
Sofia Kenin: I don't know who told you, but yeah, it's true. We were talking about this two days ago over dinner. I don't know, I just like it. It's city life. Maybe because of 'Gossip Girl,' as well. That show. ... But I love New York. I just love it there. I feel like Central Park, all of Fifth Avenue, all those shops. I'm a fancy girl, I like those shops. Living the life.
