Daria Saville, formerly known as Daria Gavrilova, was born on March 5, 1994, in Moscow, Russia. She began playing tennis at the age of six, showing immense promise early in her junior career. Saville gained recognition in junior tennis circuits, capturing the 2010 Youth Olympic Games gold medal and winning the 2010 US Open Girls’ Singles title.
In 2015, she officially switched her representation from Russia to Australia after moving to Melbourne and receiving Australian citizenship. Her aggressive baseline game and relentless fighting spirit made her a standout in Australian tennis.
Professional Career
Early Career and Breakthrough (2010-2017)
Saville turned professional in 2010, gaining attention with her exceptional court coverage and powerful counter-punching style. Her breakthrough came in 2016 when she reached the fourth round of the Australian Open, marking her best Grand Slam result at the time.
Other key achievements during this period include:
- 2017: Reached the WTA Top 20 for the first time.
- WTA Title: Won her first WTA singles title at the Connecticut Open in 2017.
Injury Struggles and Comeback (2018-2022)
Saville’s career faced significant disruptions due to recurring Achilles tendon injuries, leading to multiple surgeries between 2019 and 2021. After a long recovery, she made a successful return to professional tennis in 2022, reaching the Miami Open quarterfinals, marking a notable resurgence on the tour.
Recent Performances (2025 Australian Open)
Saville participated in the 2025 Australian Open as a wildcard entrant. Despite a strong start against Anna Blinkova, she was defeated in a three-set battle (1-6, 6-4, 7-5) in the first round. The loss marked another early Grand Slam exit for the Australian player. (Tennis Majors, 5 hours ago)
Playing Style and Strengths
Saville is known for her:
- Aggressive Counterpunching: Exceptional defensive play combined with the ability to switch to attack.
- Court Coverage: Outstanding movement and speed.
- Fighting Spirit: A tenacious competitor who thrives in long rallies.
Personal Life
Saville married fellow Australian tennis player Luke Saville in December 2021, forming one of tennis’s most well-known couples. Luke Saville, a former junior Wimbledon champion, has primarily played on the doubles circuit. The couple shares a strong bond over their mutual passion for tennis and often trains together. (EssentiallySports, 10 hours ago)
Saville has also expressed her interest in starting a family in the future, discussing the challenges of balancing professional sports and family life. (The Age, 2 days ago)
Awards and Achievements
- WTA Singles Title: Connecticut Open (2017)
- Youth Olympic Gold Medal: 2010
- US Open Girls’ Singles Champion: 2010
- WTA Top 20 Ranking: Career-high No. 20 in 2017
Legacy and Impact
Daria Saville’s resilience through injuries and her successful comeback reflect her determination and passion for the sport. She has become a role model for young Australian athletes, particularly in the women’s tennis circuit. Despite recent struggles on the court, Saville continues to inspire with her relentless spirit and dedication.
