Aleksandar Kovacevic, a 26-year-old American tennis player and top-100 ATP ranked athlete, shares his unique journey of blending professional tennis with financial studies. Born to Yugoslavian immigrants, Kovacevic pursued both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in finance while transitioning into professional tennis. His educational background has given him a distinct perspective on navigating the demanding ATP Tour.
Maturity and Knowledge
Kovacevic, like many American athletes, built his tennis skills on the collegiate circuit. However, he clarifies that he wasn’t a standout player during his time with the Fighting Illini. He explains that attending university was crucial for his development, both in tennis and personal growth.
“University is an excellent path for young adults to mature more than any other way,” Kovacevic tells the publication. “People often confuse school with partying, but it genuinely helps you grow and become more mature.”
His coach at the time, Brad Dancer, recounted in an ATP interview that Kovacevic wasn’t a highly sought-after player initially. Despite this, Kovacevic became a two-time All-American during his five years at the University of Illinois, solidifying his path to professional tennis.
Interest in Finance
Kovacevic admires athletes like Novak Djokovic and Cristiano Ronaldo, who have excelled in their respective sports while also becoming successful entrepreneurs and investors. He aims to follow a similar path, leveraging his financial education.
“I don’t have anything specific yet, but I definitely plan to get involved in managing my personal finances and exploring new investment opportunities or working in the financial sector,” Kovacevic explains.
His interest in finance stems from his father, Milan, who was an engineer and worked for JP Morgan Chase in New York before becoming his coach. Kovacevic has always been intrigued by finance, learning from his father and refining his knowledge throughout his college years.
Applying Financial Knowledge
Since becoming a professional tennis player, Kovacevic has been diligent about tracking his expenses and monitoring his finances post-taxes. He prefers managing his finances independently, although he acknowledges taking some risks.
“I’m not the most conservative with my finances, but so far, everything has gone well,” Kovacevic says. “I’m proud to have at least a basic understanding of what I’m doing.”
Key Questions and Answers
- How do you apply your financial knowledge as a professional tennis player? Kovacevic meticulously tracks his expenses and monitors his finances post-taxes, preferring to manage them independently rather than relying on a financial advisor.
- What inspired you to study finance? Kovacevic’s father, Milan, who worked as an engineer and later became his coach at JP Morgan Chase, instilled in him a keen interest in finance.
- What are your financial goals as a tennis player? Kovacevic aims to become proficient in managing his personal finances and exploring investment opportunities or working within the financial sector.
- How has your university education impacted your tennis career? Kovacevic believes his five years at the University of Illinois significantly contributed to his personal growth and maturity, which has been beneficial in handling the demands of a professional tennis player.