17-Year-Old Justin Engel Makes ATP History, Inspired by Nadal and Djokovic
Justin Engel, born in 2007, has made history as the youngest player to win an ATP match since Carlos Alcaraz in 2020. Despite initially pursuing kickboxing, Engel switched to tennis at age 11, inspired by his father’s coaching experience with Anca Barna.
Engel’s development has been supported by various resources, including training with Alexander Waske, Maximilian Marterer, and Philipp Kohlschreiber. He has prioritized professional tournament experience over junior competition, capturing four ITF World Tennis Tour M15 titles in 2024.
Engel’s progress has focused on improving his first serve percentage, angles, and leg speed. He has also worked on his mental resilience, drawing inspiration from Rafael Nadal’s power and Novak Djokovic’s athleticism and discipline.
Engel expresses sadness at the prospect of Nadal’s retirement but hopes to face Djokovic on tour. He believes that Djokovic’s longevity will provide an opportunity for their paths to cross.