Malaysia’s tennis scene has grown steadily over the years, but the country still lacks consistent representation on the ATP and WTA Tours. While local talent continues developing, several international players with Malaysian roots have already made their mark at the sport’s highest levels.
Besides the well-documented case of Australia’s Nick Kyrgios, who is related to the country through his mother, there are two more notable players who also carry Malaysian lineage while forging professional careers on tennis’s biggest stages.
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Ryan Peniston
Peniston was born in Essex to an English-Irish father and a Malaysian mother, giving the 30-year-old a direct Malaysian connection that many tennis fans may not realise. He reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 123 in 2022, built on strong runs at Challenger events and an inspiring personal journey that includes surviving childhood cancer.
At the Grand Slams, the Briton made his biggest impact at Wimbledon. In 2022, he won his opening men’s singles match before bowing out in the second round. He has also appeared in men’s and mixed doubles at Wimbledon, further cementing his reputation as a capable grass-court competitor.
Moyuka Uchijima
Born in Kuala Lumpur to a Japanese father and a Malaysian mother, the 24-year-old has emerged as Japan’s No. 2 women’s singles player and climbed into the world’s Top 50.
Uchijima’s Grand Slam progress has been promising: She has reached the second round of the Australia Open, French Open and US Open, including back-to-back appearances at the latter in 2024 and 2025. t Wimbledon, she has competed in the main draw but is still seeking her first win on grass’s grandest stage. With much of her career ahead of her, she continues to build momentum.
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