20 December 2012 | Tennis Victoria

After picking up his first ATP point earlier this year and in doing so earning himself a world ranking, Victorian tennis player Omar Jasika (Clarinda) has sights set on a bigger and better 2013.

Jasika has established himself as one of the best 15 year olds in the country and although he has many highlights in his young career, he says receiving an ATP point tops them all.

“I’ve wanted to get one for ages now and I played really well to get it,” said Jasika.

“I’ve got another 3 after that and I’m just trying to get as many as I can to try get my ranking up … it feels pretty cool, to be called a professional tennis player.”

Jasika’s four ATP points have him ranked No.1242 in the world, a notable achievement considering his young age.

After picking up a racquet at the age of six, Jasika honed his skills by hitting against a brick wall and although he boasts an ITF Junior Ranking of 84, he acknowledges there is still plenty of work ahead.

“I’ve been working on everything (in training) but mostly my mind when I’m on court,” he said.

“I’ve been seeing a sports psychologist, trying to see what has been working for me on court and it’s been working.”

Jasika’s coach, Victorian National Academy Coach Craig Tyzzer, said the pair were looking to take Jasika’s ranking into the ITF top 20 by the end of 2013.

“We are definitely looking at a pro career for Omar, he is currently the third best 15 year old in the world and with continued work and development we are hopeful of a very successful career,” said Tyzzer.

But he also added that there is still room for improvement in Jasika’s game which they would address in the New Year.

Looking to the future, left-handed Jasika said his long term aim was to reach number one in the world, while in 2013 he wants to spend time travelling and improving his ITF ranking.

“I am trying to get my ranking up so I can play all the Junior Grand Slams next year, that’s my main goal,” he said.”

Photo: Matt Johnson