“It means everything to me” – Mika Stojsavljevic on joining up with the Billie Jean King Cup team for the first time
• 2 minute read
For 17-year-old Mika Stojsavljevic, a call from Billie Jean King Cup Captain Anne Keothavong a few weeks ago led to the realisation of a career ambition.
Just a year on from her 18U title at the Lexus Junior National Championships, the former junior US Open champion is with the Lexus GB team getting set to face Australia this week.
In her first call up for the British squad, Stojsavljevic has teamed up with Harriet Dart, Katie Swan and Jodie Burrage for an all-important Qualifier tie.
The young Brit has spent the last week training alongside her teammates and has been savoring every moment of her first Billie Jean King Cup experience.
“It means everything to me,” Stojsavljevic said on her call up to the Great Britain team. “I’m very excited to be here and I’ve really enjoyed the first couple of days with the team so far.
“I still remember where I was (when she got the call). I had just finished in the gym when she called me and honestly, I couldn’t believe it.
“I had been told there was a chance but when I actually got the confirmation, I was really excited.”
Stojsavljevic has been enjoying every minute of her time in Australia. The Brits have been out practicing on court but also spending time together cycling around Melbourne and the usual team coffee trips.
With the challenge ahead against Australia, the British squad know that their support and teamwork are going to be crucial to getting the victory Down Under.
“I’ve watched most ties (growing up) and always thought the energy just looks incredible,” Stojsavljevic said.
“I got loads of lovely messages (from the Brits when the team was announced). The atmosphere in the team has been great, we’ve had a lot of fun. Obviously the cycling that everyone saw and then a lot of other stuff with the girls has been really nice.”
The Brits will have to beat a strong Australian team in order to book their place in the Finals later this year.
While having to manage a host of firsts during her time in Australia so far, Stojsavljevic is laser focused on the task at hand, and should she be called upon to play, the young Brit will be ready to go.
“It would mean everything to me,” Stojsavljevic said on the prospect of making her Billie Jean King Cup debut.
“Having everyone on the side would just be a dream for me. The atmosphere has been great in the team and it would be amazing to feel that on the court.
“I think we’re going in with a lot of confidence. We all believe in each other. I think we’ll all support each other as best we can.
“Australia is a great team, but there are so many other great teams as well. I think we’re all very happy to be here and we’ll all try our best.”
Great Britain will face Australia in the Billie Jean King Cup Qualifiers from 10-11 April from 3:00 UK time.
