Austin Krajicek’s name is synonymous with excellence in doubles tennis. The Olympic quarterfinal run by the former doubles No. 1 only heightens the glory. But what drives this devoted athlete to soar to new heights? Is it his rigorous training regimen or strategic prowess on-court? Maybe it’s something more tangible, like the support of his wife, Misia Kedzierski, whom he met in a charming twist of fate!

Krajicek might be a Grand Slam winner (French Open) in his professional career, but his greatest triumph came from an unexpected serve—a text message that led him to his now wife, Misia Kedzierski. A senior tennis player at the University of Illinois, Misia Kedzierski always held a soft spot for the sport. Therefore, a connection with another tennis player doesn’t sound unconventional, right? But there is a twist! Initially, it was Misia’s friend who had a crush on Krajicek. 

At the time, Austin Krajicek was beginning to kick-start his professional career, playing in minor tournaments, one of which was the Champaign III event. The serendipitous encounter between the duo sparked a romance that Austin was quick to realize. Therefore, when Kedzierski texted him on her friend’s behalf while calming down her nervous friend, she realized it was her that Krajicek was actually interested in. Thus, their love story began.

According to the New York Times, on a dinner date, two months after their initial meeting, both discovered their shared interest in tennis. As Krajicek slowly built his career in the sport, Misia’s path diverged from tennis. She reinvented herself as a stylist in the entertainment business, propelling forward her career in Los Angeles. Austin, who was trying his luck in the ITF Futures, and ATP Challenger Tours, followed her to LA, balancing his tour schedules with some stolen time with Misia. 

After completing her master’s degree in marketing analytics from Texas, she has now found her calling in the field of data analytics and customer handling. She is working in the Red Onion restaurant, while her husband is making headlines in tennis, reaching the world no. 1 ranking in doubles last year. Almost three years have passed since their marriage (in 2021), and both have stood by each other’s sides like a rock. Krajicek’s eyes are now on his first gold medal in the Olympics, and he will make the most of this “amazing opportunity.”

Austin Krajicek’s “patriotic” drive to earn a medal at the Olympics

In the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, Austin Krajicek narrowly missed out on a medal, increasing his hunger for it for the next time. He is on the right track this season and has secured a place in the quarterfinals against Rafael Nadal and Carlos Alcaraz. Although his 2024 season has not been entirely ideal (18-13 record), the 34-year-old player is not backing down to revive himself in Paris.

“The Olympics, it’s not necessarily the biggest thing for tennis, just the way tennis is structured around the Grand Slams and stuff. But Raj and I both are super patriotic and any time we can play for our country, we wouldn’t miss it for the world. To be able to be Team USA is an amazing opportunity,” he said before stepping in the Games.

Pairing up with Rajeev Ram, Krajicek is set to achieve another milestone in his career in the red clay. And he knows that whatever the outcome, his wife, Misia, will continue to be his constant source of encouragement and strength.