British doubles specialist Olivia Nicholls aims to expand upon her achievements from the 2025 season as the new tennis calendar commences in Australia.
Alongside her partner Tereza Mihalikova, Nicholls secured victory at the Berlin Open, reached the championship match at Indian Wells, and progressed to the third round of the French Open women’s doubles, despite the 31-year-old considering grass courts her preferred playing ground.
Her current ranking in women’s doubles by the WTA stands at 26, after achieving a personal high of 23 during the previous summer. She is scheduled to represent Great Britain at the United Cup in Perth, followed by an event in Hobart, ahead of the Australian Open starting on January 12.
“One can always find areas for enhancement, constantly striving for those additional one or two percentage points and endeavoring to perform more effectively,” she communicated to BBC Radio Norfolk.
“My aunt and uncle reside in Perth, making it feel somewhat like a second home to me. In the previous year, with Great Britain competing against Australia, my Australian uncle might have faced a dilemma of divided allegiance. However, thankfully, this year they are in a different group, ensuring my family’s complete support,” she added.
Nicholls, a native of Norwich, initiated her partnership with Mihalikova in 2024 and perceives their playing approaches on the court as mutually enhancing.
“Beyond our on-court dynamics, she’s a wonderful person; we share an excellent rapport away from the court, and I’m even slated to be a bridesmaid at her upcoming wedding. These aspects collectively contribute, significantly simplifying my experience with such an excellent partner,” she explained.
“I am aware that some pairings manage to succeed professionally despite not having a strong personal connection off the court. We, however, are fortunate to experience both, possessing a formidable partner during matches and a cherished friendship outside of them,” she commented.
“Given the extensive travel for numerous weeks annually, establishing a robust off-court environment is rather crucial. The considerable periods of inactivity, coupled with stays in hotels and meals in various locations, mean that having a pleasant support system away from the court yields a substantial positive impact.”
