reilly opelka

Biography

Overview

Opelka is the tallest man competing at Boston for Team World, one inch above fellow teammate John Isner and tied with Ivo Karlovic as the tallest-ever ATP-ranked player. He has made great strides over the past two years, becoming the No.1 ranked American this season and finishing runner-up to Medvedev at the Toronto Masters. 

Off Court

Opelka began playing tennis at six and trained with former pro Tom Gullikson. Opelka loves attending fashion shows and art galleries, and says he would like to pursue a career in fashion after tennis. He enjoys playing pick-up basketball on Tour and is a fan of the Chicago Bulls (NBA), the Chicago Bears (NFL) and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL). 

Career

After winning junior Wimbledon in 2015, Opelka had setbacks with foot and back injuries as he grew taller, and in 2018 was out for five weeks with mononucleosis. He has since made up for lost time, winning a maiden ATP singles title at 2019 New York and in 2020 capturing Delray Beach after beating Raonic and Nishioka on the same day. He stepped up in 2021 with a semifinal showing at the Rome Masters and a runner-up finish at Toronto. 

2021 Season Highlights

Final: Toronto
Semifinals: Rome
Quarterfinals: Atlanta