In South Korea, military service regulations are highly stringent. Professional tennis player Soonwoo Kwon is well-acquainted with these requirements. In September 2023, he faced a setback at the Asian Games, which potentially meant he would be unable to fulfill his military service obligations. In this country, athletes typically only escape compulsory military service by winning an Olympic medal or achieving remarkable results in other competitions. As a result, the talented tennis player now has to serve 18 months in the military. Kwon had once been ranked 52nd in the world and had won two ATP 250 tournaments during his prime.

Current Ranking and Military Enlistment

Currently, Kwon is ranked 349th in the rankings. He is set to begin his military service on January 13. Despite this setback, he has expressed his determination on social networks. He stated in his personal Instagram account, "I’m going to enlist in the army on January 13, 2025. My touring life will stop for almost two years, but I will be back in fuller shape than you can imagine." He further added, "I know a lot of people say it’s too late to come back to play after 30 years…… I think 30 is the prime of my life and I’m confident. I have only achieved 20% of the goals I set for myself, and the remaining 80% will be the Korean tennis you dream of. I will make Korean tennis what all the fans want it to be, and I will do it until I achieve it."

Impact on Career and Future Plans

This military enlistment will undoubtedly have a significant impact on Kwon's career. It means a temporary halt to his professional tennis journey. However, he remains undeterred and has set his sights on a remarkable comeback. His confidence in his abilities at the age of 30 is inspiring. He believes that he still has a long way to go in achieving his goals and making a significant impact on Korean tennis. His determination to fulfill his dreams and bring the sport to new heights is evident.

Lessons Learned and Resilience

Kwon's experience serves as a lesson for other athletes facing similar challenges. It shows the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of setbacks. Despite the disappointment of not being able to avoid military service through his tennis achievements, he has chosen to look ahead and focus on his future. His ability to stay positive and motivated during this difficult time is a testament to his character. It also highlights the need for support systems for athletes who have to navigate through such challenges.

Hope for Korean Tennis

Kwon's return is not just about his personal success but also about the future of Korean tennis. His ambition to make Korean tennis what fans dream of is a driving force. His experience and determination can inspire the next generation of tennis players in Korea. It shows that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to overcome obstacles and achieve great things. His story is a reminder that Korean tennis has the potential to shine on the global stage.