Domenika Turkovic’s Unexpected Career Change: Domenika Turkovic, a former tennis standout at Arizona State University, has transitioned to professional pickleball, bringing her competitive spirit and work ethic to the rising sport. Originally from Zagreb, Croatia, Turkovic’s journey took her from being the top-ranked junior tennis player in her country to achieving success in college tennis in the United States. Now, after earning a master’s degree and completing a standout tennis career, Turkovic has found a new passion in pickleball, competing at the highest levels and already earning recognition for her skills.
From Croatia to College Tennis
Domenika Turkovic grew up in Zagreb, Croatia, where she quickly excelled in tennis, becoming the No. 1 ranked junior player in the country. She traveled across Europe to compete, but it was the opportunity to play college tennis in the U.S. that changed her path.
“The way we have universities back home, if you go to university you can’t really play anymore because it’s mainly just school and that’s it. Whereas in the U.S. you can do everything and they really value college athletics, which made me want to come here because we have great coaches, great teammates, amazing tournaments and great competition.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
After starting her college career at UCF, she transferred to Arizona State University (ASU). There, she was coached by Sheila McInerney, who influenced her as a player and a person.
“She taught me that not everything is about tennis. Caring about people, especially with how she treated us and how she treated other employees around her. I was really impressed with that and just took it with me when I finished school.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
She said reflecting on McInerney’s lessons on caring for others. Turkovic made her mark at ASU, competing in the NCAA Doubles Championships and achieving a career-high national ranking of No. 7 in 2023.
Academic Achievements
Off the court, Turkovic excelled academically. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a Master of Sports Law and Business from ASU.
“They would organize a lot of networking events. They would make us network with each other or just go out there and try to make some connections, and I really value them for that.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
She said this appreciating the opportunities provided by the school. Her success in tennis and academics laid a strong foundation for her next chapter. After graduation in 2023, Turkovic shifted her focus to pickleball. Initially coaching the sport, she soon transitioned to professional play.
“Starting in pickleball right now, I’m trying to get to know more people. You can learn a lot of things from different sources. Then you never know, you might get a sponsor or you might be able to coach someone or you can maybe even play pickleball with them.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
With a commitment to daily practice, Turkovic quickly became a competitive player, participating in tournaments and securing her first professional medal at the APP Women’s Open in October. She emphasized the importance of enjoying the sport while growing in it.
“Sometimes we forget that playing sports is not just being competitive and not doing this for a living. Sometimes it’s okay to just enjoy it, and I feel like that’s what pickleball has been for me so far. We all have bad days and want to compete and want to win. But at the end of the day, I’m still learning a lot and I’m having a lot of fun.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
She said this reflecting on the fun she’s had in pickleball so far.
A New Path and a Homecoming
Turkovic’s new journey in pickleball has been filled with exciting moments. Recently, she returned to ASU to visit her old tennis team and relive cherished memories.
“I was so happy because I was back on campus and just getting all the memories back.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
The experience reinforced how much ASU shaped her life, academically and athletically.
“ASU really helped me figure out my life in a way, what exactly I want to do and how I want to do things.” – (Domenika Turkovic)
Turkovic’s success in pickleball and her ability to adapt and thrive in new sports highlights her resilience and determination. With a bright future ahead, she continues to enjoy the sport and grow as a professional.
News in Brief: Domenika Turkovic’s Unexpected Career Change
Domenika Turkovic, a former top Croatian tennis player, has transitioned from collegiate tennis to professional pickleball. After excelling in NCAA tennis and earning degrees in psychology and sports law, Turkovic shifted her focus to pickleball in 2023.
Her commitment to daily practice led to her first professional medal at the APP Women’s Open. Now, as a rising pickleball star, Turkovic’s career change reflects her adaptability and determination, inspiring athletes to embrace new opportunities in sports.
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