Martin Adamca has become one of the Tennis Europe Junior Tour's most prolific players in recent months. The Slovak has a string of big finals under his belt, including a runner-up berth at the 12&U Festival in 2024 and Stockholm Super Category in 2026. He won his home Category 1 tournament in Piestany this year - one of three events where he swept both singles and doubles - then also spearheaded Slovakia to a run to the finals of the 14&U Summer Cups finals in Valencia, where we caught up with him.
You started playing tennis when you were very young. How did it all begin?
I started when I was about five years old. My father had played tennis before, so he introduced me to the sport. At first, I played about once a week. I enjoyed it, it was fun, and then I started playing well, so I kept going.
When did you first realise you could be good at tennis?
Maybe when I was five and a half. I won an 8 and Under tournament and I was really happy. I thought, “I want to do this for the next few years.”
What is it like developing as a tennis player in Slovakia?
I think it is really good. At my home club we have great conditions and everything is perfect for me there.
You had a great Summer Cups campaign in Valencia: a silver medal for Team Slovakia.
I was playing well in Valencia. It takes time, like every time, to settle in… and in the semis I faced a different type of player (Richart Mitchell, SUI) he was something else: in the first set I was playing really well. In the second set, something changed. I was just slow and he was everywhere. And in the third set, with new balls, it was a good fight.
And in the final against Liam Sharkey, who beat you in the final of Stockholm KKDP.
I feel I should have won in Stockholm, but every match is different … and one month later (in the Piestany final) I won against him. But I'm really happy to play him in the final because I can say we are friends and I like to play against him. [Sharkey ended up winning the rubber in the final 4-6 6-4 6-4]
How is it playing in the extreme heat?
Well, it depends...
Sometimes I'm feeling ok - but it's so difficult!
How do you combine school and travelling?
I think I'm traveling quite a lot, and I think it's good for me. It’s definitely not a problem. I have a ‘normal’ school: when I'm home, I go to school and I try to attend as much as possible, so I train before and after school, but sometimes I miss some classes.
Which classes do you enjoy missing?
(Laughs) Biology! But I do like Geography and maths!
You have had a very successful season, winning so many titles. How would you describe it?
I’m really happy with my results. Last year I was injured, unfortunately, but this year I’m very happy with how things have gone.
[Adamca stands at No.3 in the Race to the Junior Masters] Was Monte Carlo always your goal at the start of the year?
Yes, it was already my goal before the year started. You always have to change your goals and move on, but right now Monte Carlo is the goal.
Are there any players you look up to?
Maybe Félix Auger-Aliassime. I like his forehand and his serve. And Carlos Alcaraz because of his mentality.
You also represented your country at the European Junior Championships. What were your expectations?
I think there is always a chance, and I will always try my best.
What are your biggest career dreams?
As a junior, I want to win Wimbledon and some Junior Grand Slams. Then, later, I want to win Grand Slams.
What would you say to a young person who wants to start playing tennis or pursue sport professionally?
Just do it. I think it’s fun, and you are doing it for yourself.
What are the things you love most about playing tennis?
First, I’m doing it for myself and I’m improving every day. Second, it’s fun. And third, I’m with my friends, and it’s good to be with friends, obviously.
And what are the things you don’t like?
I don’t like playing in the heat. And sometimes the mental side is difficult, like playing against myself in my head. Being away from friends and family can also be difficult, but it’s not too bad.
Finally, if you could describe what tennis means to you in a few words, what would you say?
It’s something I’m doing for myself, I’m improving every day, and most importantly, I’m having fun.
Thanks Martin! We'll be following your progress and hope to see you in Monaco.
*Earlier this year, Adamca competed at the Wimbledon 14&U invitational event, where we also caught up with him: