Encounter the Parents of Tennis Player Félix Auger-Aliassime: Marie Auger and Sam Aliassime

In the world of professional tennis, the story of Sam Aliassime, the father of rising star Felix Auger-Aliassime, is one that stands out. Born in Togo, West Africa, Sam moved to Quebec and embarked on a journey that would change the course of tennis history.

Sam's tennis journey began when he was discouraged from a career in soccer due to his lack of skill with his left foot. This setback led him to tennis, a sport he would soon embrace wholeheartedly. In Quebec, he became the only Black person at the tennis club where he taught, but his passion for the sport never wavered.

Sam's dedication to tennis led him to launch his own academy, Académie Aliassime. Here, he imparted his knowledge and love for the sport to countless young players. His son, Felix, was one of them. Sam communicates with Felix at the end of every tournament and during the planning of the season, playing a crucial role in his son's career.

Marie Auger, Felix's mother, a teacher of French Canadian descent, shared concerns about her son missing school and his childhood as he started traveling for tournaments at a young age. However, Sam believed firmly that children can't succeed in tennis if their parents aren't involved. He emphasized that the off-court aspects of tennis need to be a family project.

As Felix's career blossomed, so did the impact of Sam's work. Today, there are many Black kids who play tennis and believe they can do so because they saw Felix Auger-Aliassime do it. Sam's influence extends beyond his academy, inspiring a new generation of tennis players.

Sam knows Felix's tennis DNA since the very beginning. He prepared for his lessons by borrowing French tennis magazines from French service members, as he had no internet to look up tennis tips. His belief in the importance of off-court aspects led him to say that 25% of tennis success happens on the court, while the rest is off the court.

Sam's role as a coach for Felix was significant, but he knew when it was time to step back. He said that it was an easy decision for him to do so. Today, Felix continues to make waves in the tennis world, with his fiancee Nina Ghaibi by his side, and his sister Malika cheering him on.

Sam Aliassime's story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and belief in oneself. His journey from Togo to Quebec, from soccer to tennis, and from a tennis teacher to a tennis academy owner, is a journey that continues to inspire.

Encounter the Parents of Tennis Player Félix Auger-Aliassime: Marie Auger and Sam Aliassime