About Me

I’m from a small town in South Africa called Harrismith and I started playing tennis with my Mom when I was 5 years old. She coached me until I was 13. For the next 3 years my parents drove me to Pretoria every weekend – a 6 hour round trip – so I could get more exposure and better practice. When I was 16 I realized that if I wanted to be a professional tennis player I would have to move away from home to train more intensely. I was 18 when I started playing full time on the ITF circuit, where it took me about 8 years to get my ranking high enough to get me into the WTA Tournaments . It was a bit of a struggle as I had to support myself financially but I learned a lot and met some great people on and off the court.

BREAKING INTO THE TOP 100

Despite my limited resources I never let go of my dream to reach the WTA Tour. Through sheer determination and hard work, as well as with the support of my wonderful family and friends, I broke into the top 100 in 2010 when I qualified for the French Open and made it through to the 4th round! I became a regular face at the WTA Tour Events, and
in 2011 I reached the 3rd round at the Australian Open and the US Open.

WHAT I DO ON MY DAYS OFF?

Tennis is my real passion but it’s important to me to spend time with my friends and family. I’m based in Florida, but try to go back to South Africa at least once a year. Nothing beats having a South African ‘braai’ (barbeque) with friends and family.

My future on the WTA Tour

I could not have achieved the success I have found without my coach, Roger Anderson, who has given me the confidence and self belief to take my game to the next level. Roger’s extensive experience and knowledge, as well as his uniquely motivating coaching style, have helped me dramatically improve my game. I’m very excited about my future on the
WTA Tour and feel that I am a testament to what hard work and dedication can accomplish.

Chani’s Player Profile

Career high singles: 38 (October 10, 2011)
Career high doubles: 45 (July 22, 2013)
Name: Chanelle Scheepers
Nickname: Chani
Born: 13 March 1984
Residence: Boca Raton, Florida
Plays: Right handed, double handed backhand
Height: 177cm / 5’9
Weight: 66kg / 145lbs
Coach: Roger Anderson
Professional Status: since 2002
Equipment: Babolat
Clothing: KSwiss