Destanee Aiava, a 25-year-old Australian tennis standout, has abandoned professional tennis after enduring racism, sexism, and death threats for over a decade. She now pursues netball as her surprising new sport.
New Athletic Venture
Aiava revealed her pivot on Instagram, stating, ‘I actually have my first netball training session on Thursday night, which I’m so excited for. Super random for people who don’t know me, I know.’
She added, ‘My plan was always to find a team sport to play when I did finish. I always said if I wasn’t playing tennis as my sport, I would be playing netball.’
Recent images capture Aiava already practicing on the netball court.
Exit from Tennis
The former pro, who debuted at age 17, likened tennis to a ‘toxic boyfriend’ in a candid statement earlier this month. She delivered a blunt farewell to the sport amid persistent abuse.
Aiava criticized the environment: ‘Behind the white outfits and traditions is a culture that’s racist, misogynistic, homophobic and hostile to anyone who doesn’t fit the mould.’
Tennis Career Highlights
Aiava claimed 10 ITF Tour titles and peaked at world No. 147 in singles rankings.
Personal Milestones Ahead
This year brings major changes for Aiava, including her upcoming wedding to long-time partner Corey Gaal. The couple has shared a relationship since their teenage years.
Fans applaud her shift, with responses like ‘Sounds like a great transition. All the best’ and ‘Netball, I’m here for it.’
