Tennis
Meet Elvis Smylie's Tennis Pro Parents: Liz & Peter Smylie from the 90s
2024-11-30
Elvis Smylie, a 22-year-old golfer from Queensland, Australia, has achieved remarkable success in just three years as a professional. With three wins under his belt, it's clear that this left-handed prodigy has a unique sports DNA. Surprisingly, his inclination leans more towards tennis, as his parents, Peter and Liz Smylie, were former professional tennis players.
Love and Tennis: A Winning Combination
The Smylie duo's love story is intertwined with their tennis careers. Peter and Liz played tennis throughout their lives, and their love for the sport even led to their marriage. Elizabeth, born in 1963 in Perth, is a tennis legend in Western Australia. During her active years, she won three singles titles and twenty-eight WTA doubles titles. She also represented Australia in the 1988 Seoul Olympics, winning a bronze in the women's doubles competition.From 1983 to 1993, Elizabeth won four Grand Slam doubles championships and reached a peak ranking of 20 in singles and 5th in doubles. After getting engaged in 1983, she teamed up with Peter, and her career soared. She achieved a high ranking of 41 in the world and earned nearly $500,000. Liz pointed out that being in a relationship with someone from the same profession gave her peace of mind. She didn't have to worry about finding dates or someone to share her interests with.From 1984 to 1994, Elizabeth competed in the Fed Cup, representing Australia. In 1985, she was named the Sports Star of the Year in her native state. The couple's love story is a testament to the power of shared passions.Peter Smylie: The Supporting Hand
While Liz dominated the tennis courts in the 80s and 90s, Peter was no less remarkable. He played doubles and participated in three Grand Slam main events during his career. He competed in the mixed doubles at the 1983 French Open after playing in the men's doubles at the 1978 Australian Open and 1982 Wimbledon Championships. In 1983, Peter made a significant sacrifice by giving up his career to coach his wife. This decision led to the birth of their three children, including Elvis.Apart from tennis, Peter loved music and named his son Elvis after seeing Elvis Presley front row with John McEnroe in the 70s. Now 66 years old, he is a real estate sales executive after a career in sports management.Elvis Smylie's Golf Journey
Although Elvis has a more tennis background, golf has also played a significant role in his life. When he was in school at the Glades, he would go to the practice range every day before school. His father got him interested in golf, and he has been fortunate to have his parents' support.For Elvis, tennis was always in the background, a fun activity. But his parents have been his biggest support system, always there for him. Whether it was on the tennis court or the golf course, they have been by his side.What do you think of Elvis Smylie? Let us know in the comments below.