Kimberly Birrell: “I think I’ve surprised quite a few people”

Kimberly Birrell: “I think I’ve surprised quite a few people”

From The Sit-Down by Tennis Australia

May 25, 2026 · 33 min · Season 3 · Episode 16

About this episode

Kimberly Birrell discusses her journey through injuries and her aspirations in professional tennis.

In a rare episode of The Sit-Down conducted in the locker rooms of John Cain Arena, Kimberly Birrell joined the podcast when she was recently in Melbourne for Australia’s most recent Billie Jean King Cup tie. The 28-year-old reflects on a career journey interrupted by serious elbow injuries, which required surgery and made her doubt if her body would hold up to the rigours of professional tennis. What has followed has been a period of sustained success; Birrell peaked at world No.60 and has entrenched herself in the top 100, also enjoyed a stint as Aussie No.1, and is competing more regularly at the biggest tournaments against the game’s best. After a sizzling start to 2026, the Queenslander has bigger goals in sight, sharing her dreams for Wimbledon and beyond. AusOpen.com iHeart Apple Podcasts Spotify   Host handles: @Viv_Christie @MattyAT See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Hosts: Viv Christie, MattyAT

Guest: Kimberly Birrell

Topics covered

  • tennis
  • injury recovery
  • professional sports
  • career journey
  • Wimbledon aspirations

Keywords

  • Kimberly Birrell
  • tennis
  • Billie Jean King Cup
  • injury
  • Wimbledon
  • Australia
  • professional tennis

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Tennis Australia

Books & works: AusOpen.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify

Places: Melbourne

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