Anna Kournikova remains one of the most recognizable names in tennis history, not because of an extensive record of singles titles, but due to her impact on the sport, her star power, and her cultural influence. Despite retiring from professional tennis at just 21, her fame carried on through endorsements, modeling, and appearances in the entertainment world. In 2025, Anna Kournikova continues to be remembered as both a skilled doubles champion and a global celebrity whose career opened doors beyond tennis.
Early Life and Background
Anna Kournikova was born on June 7, 1981, in Moscow, Russia, making her 43 years old in 2025. Her family was deeply rooted in athletics. Her father, Sergei, was a former Greco-Roman wrestling champion, and her mother, Alla, competed as a 400-metre runner. Anna’s younger brother, Allan, went on to become a world golf champion, showing that competitive spirit ran strong in the family.
Anna first picked up a tennis racquet at the age of five, a gift that sparked a lifelong journey. By age eight, she was already competing in junior tournaments. When she turned nine, she began attracting attention from international tennis scouts. Soon after, she joined Nick Bollettieri’s prestigious tennis academy in Florida, where her natural talent was honed.
Rising Tennis Career
Kournikova’s teenage years were marked by rapid success. At 14, she won the Italian Open junior tournament and the European Championships. That same year, she became the youngest player to win the Junior Orange Bowl. Her debut on the professional stage came early, as she represented Russia in the Fed Cup at just 14, becoming the youngest ever to win a match in the competition.
In 1997, she reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon as a 16-year-old, a performance that put her firmly in the spotlight. While her singles career never resulted in a WTA title, she reached the top 10 in the world and earned the admiration of fans for her aggressive playing style and court presence.
Doubles Success and Career Highlights
Anna found her greatest success in doubles. Teaming with Swiss star Martina Hingis, the duo captured two Grand Slam doubles titles at the Australian Open in 1999 and 2002. They were dubbed the “Spice Girls of Tennis,” a nod to their star quality and dominance on the court.
At the height of her career, Anna was ranked World No. 1 in doubles and No. 8 in singles. Over her professional run, she collected 16 doubles titles, and her overall singles record stood at 209–129. Unfortunately, injuries became a constant struggle. Chronic back and spinal problems forced her to retire in 2003 at just 21 years old, cutting short a career that had promised even greater things.
Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2025, Anna Kournikova’s net worth is estimated at $60 million. While her career prize money totaled just under $4 million, the bulk of her wealth came from endorsements and media work. She was one of the most marketable athletes in the late 1990s and early 2000s, landing lucrative deals with brands like Adidas and Berlei, whose sports bra campaign became iconic worldwide.
Her celebrity status extended beyond the tennis court, with appearances in magazines such as Sports Illustrated, FHM, and Maxim, as well as endorsements across fashion and fitness. Even after retirement, her name recognition continued to fuel opportunities that helped sustain her fortune.
Media and Television Appearances
Anna’s fame crossed over into entertainment. She made a cameo in the 2000 comedy Me, Myself & Irene and later appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. In 2010, she joined NBC’s The Biggest Loser, leading fitness challenges and later becoming a celebrity trainer for season 12. While she stepped away after one season, her role highlighted her continued commitment to health and fitness.
Personal Life and Family
Anna Kournikova’s personal life has long intrigued fans. She began dating Spanish singer Enrique Iglesias in 2001 after starring in his music video for “Escape.” The couple has kept their relationship extremely private, rarely confirming or denying details about their status. Rumors of marriage have swirled for years, but both Anna and Enrique prefer to stay silent.
Together, they have three children: twins Nicholas and Lucy, born in December 2017, and a daughter born in January 2020. The family resides in Miami on a private island property reportedly valued at $20 million. Anna became a U.S. citizen in 2010, further deepening her ties to her adopted country.
Life After Tennis
Since stepping away from professional sports, Anna has remained active in charity and advocacy. She is a Global Ambassador for Population Services International’s Five & Alive program, which addresses health crises affecting children under the age of five and their families. She also participates in charity tennis events and exhibition matches.
Anna has built a life that balances family, philanthropy, and selective public appearances. While no longer in the media spotlight daily, her legacy as a trailblazing tennis star and global icon remains intact.