Ajla Tomljanovic: The Aussie Fighter’s Gritty Comeback and Career at a Glance
In the high-stakes world of professional tennis, few stories resonate with the Australian spirit of resilience quite like that of Ajla Tomljanovic. The former Australian No. 1 has become synonymous with gutsy, three-set battles and an unwavering determination to overcome a brutal run of injuries. Her emotional return to the court at the 2024 Australian Open, where she staged a classic comeback victory, reminded fans exactly why she’s a beloved figure in the sport. But her journey is a complex tapestry of brilliant highs and challenging setbacks.
As we look at her career and recent form, it’s a tale defined by steely comebacks, significant health battles, and a ranking that doesn’t reflect her proven ability to challenge the world’s best. From her deep runs at Wimbledon to fighting back from surgery, Tomljanovic’s path is a compelling watch for any sports fan.
2024 Australian Open: A Triumphant Return
Tomljanovic’s 2024 season kicked off with a moment that captured the nation’s attention. After a long period sidelined, she entered her home Grand Slam with a protected ranking and faced a tough first-round opponent in Petra Martic. What followed was a classic Ajla performance.
“Tomljanovic is the last Aussie through to the second round after a gutsy win against former compatriot and close friend Petra Martic,” reported Nine News, highlighting the emotional and competitive significance of the match.
She rallied from a deficit to win 7-6(3), 4-6, 6-4 in a gruelling encounter on Melbourne Park’s showcourts. This victory was more than just a first-round win; it was a statement that the fighter was back. Unfortunately, her run was halted in the next round by the powerful 11th seed, Jelena Ostapenko.
Career Statistics & Profile
With a decade of experience on the tour, Tomljanovic has built a solid career. Standing at 180 cm tall, her powerful baseline game has seen her reach multiple Grand Slam quarterfinals. Here’s a quick look at her key career stats, with prize money converted to Australian Dollars for context.
| Statistic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | 180 cm |
| Playing Hand | Right Handed |
| Career Win-Loss Record | 186-217 |
| Career Prize Money (USD) | $7,248,782.00 |
| Approx. Career Prize Money (AUD) | A$10.9 million* |
| Number of Australian Opens Played | 10 |
*Approximate conversion at a rate of 0.67 USD/AUD.
The Injury Battles: A Setback-Filled Journey
Tomljanovic’s recent years have been a relentless fight against her own body. After a knee injury plagued her 2023 season, she faced an even more personal health challenge in early 2024.
Uterine Fibroid Surgery
In February 2024, Tomljanovic revealed she had undergone surgery for non-cancerous uterine tumours, putting her tennis comeback on hold once again. This followed a period where she was already battling back from knee issues, illustrating the immense physical hurdles she has faced.
Ongoing Knee Concerns
The knee problems have persisted. In late 2024, it was reported that her 2025 WTA season would be delayed due to a left knee injury, forcing her to withdraw from initial tournaments. These consecutive setbacks have seen her world ranking drop to as low as 219, a far cry from her career-high of No. 32.
Memorable Grand Slam Performances
Despite the injuries, Tomljanovic’s career is highlighted by significant performances on the biggest stages. She is a three-time Grand Slam quarterfinalist, with her most notable runs coming at Wimbledon.
| Tournament | Year | Result | Notable Match |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wimbledon | 2021 | Quarterfinal | Lost to Ash Barty |
| Wimbledon | 2022 | Quarterfinal | Lost to Elena Rybakina |
| US Open | 2022 | Quarterfinal | Defeated Serena Williams in 3rd Rd |
| Australian Open | 2023 | 4th Round | Def. Ashlyn Krueger 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 |
Her head-to-head record against top players is challenging, as seen with a 0-2 deficit against Wimbledon champion Elena Rybakina, but her ability to reach the latter stages of majors is a testament to her skill and competitive spirit when fully fit.
The Road Ahead in 2025 and Beyond
As of early 2025, the focus for Tomljanovic remains squarely on achieving full fitness. The delayed start to her season means her immediate goal is a sustained return to the tour without further interruptions. For Australian tennis fans, a fit and firing Tomljanovic remains a critical asset. Her experience, power, and proven Grand Slam pedigree can inspire a new generation and add depth to the national tennis landscape. The hope is that this resilient competitor can finally catch a break and write the next chapter of her career on her own terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ajla Tomljanovic’s current world ranking?
Following a series of injuries and surgery in 2024, Tomljanovic’s ranking has fallen significantly. As of late 2024, she was ranked around 219th in the world. She has been using protected rankings to enter major tournaments like the Australian Open.
What injury did Ajla Tomljanovic have surgery for in 2024?
In February 2024, Tomljanovic underwent surgery for non-cancerous uterine fibroids. This procedure forced her to pause her tennis comeback, which was already underway following previous knee injury troubles.
How many times has Ajla Tomljanovic reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals?
Ajla Tomljanovic has reached the Wimbledon quarterfinals twice. She achieved this feat in consecutive years, in 2021 where she lost to Ash Barty, and in 2022 where she was defeated by the eventual champion, Elena Rybakina.
What is Ajla Tomljanovic’s career prize money in Australian Dollars?
Tomljanovic has earned US$7,248,782 in career prize money. Using a standard conversion rate, this equates to approximately A$10.9 million, making her one of Australia’s highest-earning female tennis players.