As the anticipation for Wimbledon grows, much of the spotlight often shines on British players. Among them could have been Joanna Garland, a 23-year-old talent from Stevenage. However, her path diverged as she chose to represent Taiwan, where she has become the nation's top female tennis player. Her family's connection to Taiwan and her formative years spent there have shaped her career significantly.

Discover Why This Athlete's Choice Could Transform Tennis

A Unique Connection to Taiwan

Joanna Garland’s decision to play for Taiwan instead of Britain is rooted deeply in her personal history. Born into a family with strong ties to Taiwan—her mother hails from the East Asian country—Garland feels an undeniable bond with the nation that nurtured her during some of her most crucial developmental years. Despite contemplating representing Britain due to opportunities like Grand Slam qualifiers and Wimbledon wildcards, Garland ultimately realized that her successes were intertwined with her Taiwanese roots. Playing for Taiwan provided her not only with support but also a sense of belonging that fueled her achievements.This connection extends beyond mere ancestry. The coaches and mentors she encountered in Taiwan played pivotal roles in shaping her game and character. Their guidance during her formative years laid the foundation for her current status as Taiwan’s leading female tennis player. Garland acknowledges this debt, crediting these individuals for their unwavering support throughout her journey.

The Trials of a Solo Traveller

From the age of fourteen, Garland embarked on her professional tennis career largely unaccompanied by family members. Instead, she relied heavily on her organizational skills to navigate the complexities of tournament schedules, flight bookings, and accommodation arrangements. Her parents, while supportive, opted against attending her matches, allowing her to grow independently and manage her own affairs.Such autonomy, however, came at a cost. Life on tour frequently became isolating, compounded by subpar living conditions. Far removed from luxury accommodations or chauffeur services, Garland often found herself sharing quarters with pests such as cockroaches and mosquitoes. These challenges tested her resolve but ultimately strengthened her determination to succeed. Each hardship contributed to the broader narrative of her ascent in the sport, reinforcing her resilience and adaptability.

Overcoming Adversity Through Perseverance

Injuries plagued Garland’s early career, causing her ranking to plummet to 551 by the end of last year. Yet, 2025 marked a turning point, witnessing her rise to a WTA ranking of 144. This improvement was driven by victories in four ITF W35 tournaments held in Kenya and Italy. Under the full-time tutelage of Tim de Rooij in the Netherlands, Garland qualified for her maiden Grand Slam appearance at the French Open, triumphing in her opening match against Katie Volynets from the United States.Her performance at Roland Garros captivated audiences worldwide, particularly in Taiwan, where fans celebrated her achievement enthusiastically. Despite succumbing to Julia Putintseva in the second round, Garland capitalized on her momentum by qualifying for her first WTA tournament in s’Hertogenbosch, Netherlands. There, she faced Bianca Andreescu, showcasing her growing prowess on the global stage.

Eyeing Success at Wimbledon

With Wimbledon fast approaching, Garland prepares to tackle its qualifying rounds, buoyed by her recent accomplishments. While acknowledging the pressure stemming from her success at Roland Garros, she remains optimistic about reaching the main draw. Representing Taiwan at one of tennis’s most prestigious events would underscore her remarkable journey and solidify her place among the sport’s elite.Garland’s story exemplifies the power of perseverance, familial support, and cultural identity in shaping a successful athletic career. As she continues to ascend the rankings, her influence extends beyond individual accolades, inspiring countless others through her dedication and passion for the game.