Hot on the heels of Emma Raducanu is Harriet Dart, nominated newcomer for the 2022 WTA tour and representing Great Britain in the Fed Cup team.
Harriet has broken in the World’s Top 100 with her highest career world ranking at number 84, as well as, currently being ranked UK number 2 in singles.
Down to earth, well grounded off court, and incredibly hard-working, she is known for her great fighting spirit on court with that all important killer instinct. This has been cemented by her recent impressive wins over Paula Badosa (World Ranked 13) and Alja Tomljanovic (World 33) during the Billie Jean Cup Finals.
We spoke to Harriet at the ASICS Tennis Summit in Puerto Romano Tennis Club, Marbella about fashion, London and her career aspirations.
What are you up to at the moment?
I’m the middle of pre-season training for 2023, which involves loads of gym, tennis, running and hours of training.
Who or what inspired you to play tennis?
I grew up in a sporty family and was introduced to my chosen sport through my parents. I’ve had lots of different idols growing up, equally not just in tennis, I’ve had football players and other personalities on my wall which have changed as I’ve got older.
I remember I had a Cristiano Ronaldo poster in my bedroom … classic! Also, what Andy Murray has been able do for British Tennis is unbelievable and super inspiring.
If you weren’t playing tennis professionally what would you be doing?
I think I’d be a middle distance runner. My fitness coach says if I quit tennis now, I could compete in 1,500m running or more.
What are you training essentials?
Depending on where I am, like in the gym, I want to be wearing clothing which is comfortable, durable and I’m able to move well in it - plus I’m sweating alot! All of the ASICS wear is great, super comfy, stylish and alot about it for me is if you look good, you feel good. It’s been nice to grow with the brand who have been supporting me since 2019.
How do you prepare ahead of a match?
I’m a little anti-social before a match. I tend to get into my own little bubble and just try keeping things as normal as possible. Whoever I travel with, I always have a pack of Uno (the card game). It can get a bit competitive and out of hand, but it’s all just fun and games. I also like listening to good music or a podcast, and just talking to someone about the stresses of the tour to calm me down a bit and put me in a good headspace.
What are your favourite tennis brands?
They would have to be my partners ASICS and Yonex. I play with the new Asics Gel Resolution 9 shoes and my racket which in a Yonex VCore 100. I love both brands, they are really nice people to work with.
What is the one item you can’t live without?
This is quite sad but I’m going to say suncream. That’s really quite sad isn’t!? It’s because of all the travelling! People might say a phone, but honestly I think I could get away without it. Sure, my life might be alot harder, but it’s also nice to have some time away from social media. I would definitely miss listening to music and my Airpods, but if I was on a desert island, it would still be suncream!
What are your travel must haves?
A speaker to chill in the room. I also like to create my own personal spa with a nice face mask to make me feel good. A decent book is really important as well and I’d of course I’d have to remember my tennis gear, otherwise I can’t work.
What do you love about London?
It’s a very diverse community. I love that there is so much to do and you never get bored, especially being born and bred in here. It’s my favourite city. I always say to anyone, It’s the best place in the world ... when the weather’s good!
I love the markets (especially at Christmas). I recently went to South Bank, the food is amazing and people are so friendly.
How do you treat yourself?
Go on holiday! I’ve also started a trend every time I play Wimbledon that I buy myself a new bag. I’ve started my own little Mulberry collection.
Describe your on and off court style and what are your wardrobe staples?
I love fashion and it’s a great way to show your creativity and personality. Off court, depending on what mood I’m in, I can be that person wearing the baggiest tracksuits and loungewear to equally looking very smart in a really fancy dress and heels. Day to day, I’ve got into wearing a lot of flared jeans. I’m a big trainer junkie and have lot of of fun ASICS sport style shoes. Usually, I’ll be wearing a good jumper (especially in cold weather). I much prefer summer though, as you can get out of jeans then.
On court, I know some players who can play with rings, but I haven’t quite mastered that yet! I just wear my hoop earrings and keep things simple, which is more my style. I’m a creature of habit you know . Most of the accessory I wear are gifts and makes me feel close to that person.
What are your career plans/goals over the next five years?
Five years is a long time, isn’t it?! I try and keep things in the moment. A lot of my focus is in the next few months and year. Of course, I want to make inroads with my game, improve my ranking and do well at bigger tournaments. Developing as a player and human being is also importmant to me - but that takes time. I’m not sure where I’ll be in five years time, you never know what life will bring you. It would be nice to think I’ll still be playing competitive tennis at the highest level though.
If you could play against any player past and present who would they be?
For a past player, I would love to play against Steffi Graf, I think she is iconic and she was an amazing player and am sure she still is. Presently, I would like to play against Rafa Nadal, which may happen if we get the the opportunity at the inaugural 2023 United Cup in the mixed doubles which is going to be held in Australia - that would be really cool!
What advice would you give to budding tennis players?
Enjoy it more! Looking back when playing tennis as a junior you think it means everything, but really it’s such small part of the journey and a stepping stone. Be long term orientated, not just in tennis, but your life or how you see yourself and don’t get caught up too much in the moment - easier said than done, right? Stay in the present, don’t just play tennis, do multiple sports and most of all, be a good human being.
