In a joyous announcement on March 8, 2026, Australian tennis player Daria Saville and her husband, former ATP professional Luke Saville, revealed the birth of their first child, son Louie Alex Saville, born on March 6. The arrival of Louie brought waves of congratulations from WTA and ATP players, including Leylah Fernandez, who warmly expressed her best wishes to the new parents. This news marks a significant moment for Saville as she embraces motherhood following a season paused to focus on her pregnancy.
Details of Saville’s Pregnancy Journey and Recent Competitions
Known previously as Daria Gavrilova, Saville has been admired on the WTA Tour for her tenacity and lively spirit on the court. Remarkably, she competed while pregnant at prestigious tournaments such as Wimbledon and the US Open in 2025 before deciding to step away from the season after her exit from the US Open qualifiers. Throughout her pregnancy, Luke Saville stood by her side, continuing his support as she transitioned into this new phase of life. The couple’s announcement on social media included a heartfelt introduction of their newborn, strengthening their connection with fans worldwide.
“Say hi to Louie Alex Saville,”
Daria Saville, Tennis Player
Reactions From Fellow Players and the Tennis Community
The tennis world responded quickly and warmly to the news of Louie’s birth. Leylah Fernandez was among those who extended congratulations, writing, “Congratulations!!” Alongside her, Sloane Stephens added a lively “Hi louieeeee,” while Danielle Collins shared emoji-filled admiration. Morgan Riddle also offered a heartfelt “Congrats guys.”
British player Katie Boulter and her fiancé, Alex de Minaur, joined in the celebration, sending messages of “Congrats guys” and “Congratsssss.” Belinda Bencic expressed her excitement through heart-eyes emojis, with former Serena Williams coach Rennae Stubbs exclaiming, “Omgggg he’s sooooo cute!!!!!!”
Additional voices of congratulations came from Australian doubles player Storm Hunter, who shared heart-eyes emojis, Thanasi Kokkinakis with a simple “congrats guys!”, and Ajla Tomljanovic, who greeted the newborn with an affectionate “Louieeee.” Jasmine Paolini, Priscilla Hon, Sabine Lisicki, and Kim Clijsters also extended warm wishes, with Hon describing the baby photos as “too much cuteness.”
The Broader Impact of This Milestone Within the Tennis Community
Daria Saville’s announcement has highlighted the evolving roles and experiences of female athletes balancing professional careers and family life. Her ability to compete at high levels while pregnant inspired many, illustrating resilience and dedication. The outpouring of support from fellow players like Leylah Fernandez and others underlines the tight-knit nature of the tennis community, which rallies around personal milestones alongside sporting achievements. As Saville embraces motherhood, fans and peers alike look forward to her future return to the tour, hopeful for her continued success both on and off the court.
