Is it true that these days you have to start training since "5years old" in order to become a pro?

Question

Like to become one of the top tennis players in the world lol. I mean how intense is that.......

Answer 1

No, it's mroe about skills and talent.

xx

Germany For Euro2008!

Answer 2

i don't really think it matters

if you love it and you have heart and you're natural at it then i think you can become a pro

i don't think it matters what age you were when you first started

Answer 3

no, james blake was never really serious about being a pro when he was a small kid. When he was at Harvard he decided to try it so it was really a last minute decision for him.

Answer 4

No, you don't. That's how kids burn out. Think about it, if you were training roughly everyday since 5 years old, and your 14 years old now, you would have many injuries and by the time your supposed to "Turn Pro", you couldn't because you would be burnt. You shouldn't start training like a pro until your at least 12 or 13, or when your body tells you. Trust me, I know!

Answer 5

Its not the age but your will to improve ... take me for example I started playing tennis 8 months ago and now I am 4.5 (thats a college level player) in just 8 months ... why? because I had the will to improve .. if I want I can push myself to improve soo much that at the end of this summer I will be in the top 10 in my region for 14 years old .... Right now I am being lazy and not working out as much off court but now I will do it every day off court and on court training . to let you know I dont have a coach but a partner who is 67 but use to be a pro tennis player ... so he really teaches me alot of things I do wrong

Answer 6

Generally yes.  Sharapova was discovered when she was 7.  I don't know if training is the correct word, but playing and having correct technique is necessary.  Picking up a racket for the first time at 14 and becoming a pro just doesn't happen.  

There is the burn out factor but that is true for any sport or discipline (music is even more competitive).  Some will give it up but some will love the sport and continue....they have a shot, whereas the person who loves the sport and first played at 14 has no shot - regardless of their passion.

Answer 7

Really depends where your skill level lies. If your natural no but if not yes.