Former No. 1 ranked men’s singles tennis player Roger Federer once said, “‘Effortless’ is a myth.” When you think about it, it seems obvious that no one can achieve anything effortlessly—even, or perhaps especially, someone as accomplished and hard-working as sophomore Emma Liu, the No. 1 singles player on Hudson’s varsity girls tennis team.
If you’ve ever watched Liu play, however, you might find it harder to believe there’s no such thing as “effortless.” Everything about her style—from her smooth, fluid serve to her boundless energy and agility—gives the impression of ease, leaving spectators thinking, “I should take up tennis; it doesn’t look too challenging,” while other tennis players think, “I’m so glad she’s not my opponent!”
But what makes 15-year-old Emma Liu so good at tennis? Is she really just a natural athlete who waves her racket and hits winners, or is there a bit more strategy behind her game?
As it turns out, Liu started playing tennis shortly after moving to Hudson at the age of 8, meaning she’s been playing for seven years. She began at her neighborhood courts with her older sister, Erica Liu, now 19.
“I started playing tennis just because I had the opportunity to,” Emma said.
Shortly after she began, Liu started training at Stow’s LaTuchie Tennis Center. From there, she entered her first tournament at just 8 years old.
Fast-forward through years of practice and dedication, and Liu earned a spot on Hudson’s varsity girls tennis team her freshman year of high school. She immediately became the team’s No. 1 singles player—and for good reason—as she advanced all the way to the state tournament in her first season.
Though she battled pneumonia during the state championship and didn’t achieve the outcome she had hoped for, Liu noted that sectionals went especially well.
“I was playing Haley Slay, and I would consider her a better player than I was,” Liu said. “But I stayed mentally tough throughout the match, and then I beat her.”
Still, her journey hasn’t been without challenges.
“In general, the most challenging matches I have are against people who cheat during matches because it’s frustrating and it knocks you off mentally,” Liu said. “Overcoming that is typically the hardest part.”
Even in tough situations, Liu strives to stay calm and composed. She said she looks up to her role model, Jannik Sinner, the current No. 2 ranked men’s singles player.
“He’s just really calm on the court, and he stays really humble even though he’s super good,” Liu said.
Similarly, sophomore teammate Angelique Pinson said that despite Liu’s skill, she remains humble and grounded.
Others also note Liu’s positive attitude and energy both on and off the court, showing that she’s a standout not just for her athleticism, but also for her character.
“I think tennis really helps build your character because it shows you how to deal with things under pressure and how important it is to overcome tough situations alone,” Liu said.
Looking ahead, Liu hopes to do well at sectionals to make it to the state championship again. After high school, she’s considering playing college tennis.
Whatever the future holds, Liu is sure to find success in one way or another. Here at Hudson High School, we’re all rooting for our very own tennis star—Emma Liu.
