Petra Kvitová is a Czech left-handed tennis powerhouse celebrated for her explosive groundstrokes, graceful yet aggressive style, and unrelenting spirit
Born on March 8, 1990, in Bílovec (then Czechoslovakia), she rose to prominence with two memorable Wimbledon titles in 2011 and 2014. Over nearly two decades, Kvitová became a fixture of elite women’s tennis.
Her story is defined by triumph, resilience, and a return stronger than ever.
She survived a near career-ending knife attack in 2016, made a remarkable comeback, embraced motherhood, and officially retired in 2025, a journey that reflects courage, grace, and unwavering passion for the game.
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Table of Contents
Early Life of Petra Kvitová
Petra Kvitová was born on March 8, 1990, in Bílovec, Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic). She grew up in the small town of Fulnek, where her passion for tennis began at an early age.
Petra was introduced to the sport by her father, Jiří Kvitová, who worked as a school teacher and also served as her first coach.
Her parents supported her dreams from the very beginning. While her mother, Pavla Kvitová, managed the household, her father encouraged her to practice regularly on the local tennis courts.
Petra’s dedication to training soon set her apart from other children in her town.
As a teenager, she trained at the Fulnek Tennis Club and later moved to Prostějov, a city well-known for producing top Czech tennis talents.
There, she joined the Czech Republic’s national tennis program, which helped refine her powerful left-handed game.
During her junior career, Petra showed signs of the aggressive playing style she would later become famous for—her strong serve and forceful groundstrokes.
By the time she turned professional in 2006, she had already built a reputation as one of the most promising young Czech players.
Career and Personal Stats
Here’s a clean and readable summary of Petra Kvitová’s career highlights and personal background in table form.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Petra Kvitová |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1990 |
| Birthplace | Bílovec, Czechoslovakia (now Czech Republic) |
| Height | 1.82 m (6 ft) |
| Turned Pro | 2006 |
| Retired | 20251 |
| Playing Style | Left-handed, two-handed backhand |
| Career-High Ranking | No. 2 (31 October 2011) |
| Career Prize Money | US$ 37,454,150 |
| Singles Titles (WTA) | 31 |
| Grand Slam Singles Titles | Wimbledon (2011, 2014) |
| WTA Finals | Winner (2011) |
| Olympics | Bronze (2016 Rio)2 |
| Fed Cup / Billie Jean King Cup | 6 titles (2011, 2012, 2014–2016, 2018) |
| Personal Life | Married coach Jiri Vaněk in 2023; welcomed son Petr in July 20243 |
| Net Worth (est.) | Approx. US$ 30–35 million (2025) |
| Endorsements | Nike, Wilson, TAG Heuer, Audi, L’Occitane, and others |
Career Highlights & Milestones
-
Breakthrough and Rise (2009–2011)
Kvitová first gained global notice by defeating world No. 1 Dinara Safina at the 2009 US Open. Her breakthrough came in 2011 when she won Wimbledon by triumphing over Maria Sharapova and later capped the year with a WTA Championships title. -
Continuing Excellence (2012–2014)
In 2012, she reached semifinals across major tournaments and won the Hopman Cup with Tomáš Berdych. She captured her second Wimbledon title in 2014.
— Petra Kvitova (@Petra_Kvitova) June 19, 2025
-
Challenging Times and Inspiring Comeback (2016–2017)
A violent knife attack in December 2016 left her left hand seriously injured. Yet, by 2017 she made a full return, showing unmatched strength and resolve. 4 -
Peak Performance & Later Years
Kvitová reached the Australian Open final in 2019 and maintained top form across WTA tournaments. She secured titles in Miami and Berlin in 2023.5 -
Retirement (2025)
After a 6-1, 6-0 loss at the US Open, Kvitová emotionally retired at age 35. Her farewell included heartfelt remarks, emotional tributes, and a celebration of her enduring impact.6
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Personal Life & Character
-
Family and Roots
Petra grew up with two older brothers. Her father, Jiří, was a teacher and later vice mayor; her mother, Pavla, was her constant supporter. She began tennis thanks to her father. -
Relationships and Marriage
After past relationships, she began dating coach Jiri Vaněk in 2021. They got engaged in 2022 and married in July 2023. -
Motherhood
In July 2024, Petra gave birth to her son, Petr. She took a maternity break and made a return to tennis in 2025 before retiring.7 -
Off-Court Interests
She enjoys comedy films, pop and rock music, sushi, basketball, and volleyball. Martina Navratilova was her idol because they share a left-handed style.
FAQ’s
1. What makes Petra Kvitová’s playing style unique?
She is known for her aggressive, powerful left-handed play. She hits flat, fast groundstrokes and dominates on faster surfaces like grass.
2. How many Grand Slam finals did she reach?
She reached three Grand Slam finals, winning two Wimbledon titles and later finishing runner-up at the 2019 Australian Open.
3. How significant was her comeback after the knife attack?
The 2016 attack threatened her career, washing away nerve function in her playing hand. Yet she returned at Wimbledon 2017 and went on to win multiple titles—an inspiring comeback.
4. What endorsements contributed to her earnings?
Endorsements from big names like Nike, Wilson, TAG Heuer, Audi, L’Occitane, UniCredit, and more supported her financially.
5. What is her legacy in Czech tennis?
She helped her country win six Fed Cup titles and holds a place in tennis history as one of the most successful and inspirational athletes to come from the Czech Republic.
6. Why did she retire in 2025?
Citing a desire to focus on family and inspired by her recent experiences, including motherhood, she was emotionally ready to begin a new chapter outside the intense demands of the tour.
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Conclusion
Petra Kvitová’s story is one of raw talent, powerful spirit, and grace under pressure.
From a gifted left-hander breaking through in 2009, to a grand slam champion, a survivor, a mother, and finally a graceful retiree, her journey inspires.
Her legacy endures through those epic Wimbledon moments, her remarkable returns, and a narrative that goes beyond tennis.
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