*This Article was Written by Florida Tennis
At just eight years old, Florida-based player Maxim Martinasevic made a strong first impression at the Little Mo Regionals, winning the Boys’ 8U division in his first-ever tournament appearance.
The event took place across two venues in Palm Beach County, Palm Beach Gardens Tennis and Pickleball Center and The Tennis Club of Palm Beach, bringing together some of the top young players in the region.
For Martinasevic, the tournament marked a milestone moment.
“My first name is Maxim, my last name is Martinovich, and I’m eight years old,” he said after his opening match. “Actually, I’ve never played a tournament before. This is my first one.”
Despite the new experience, he showed composure from the start.
“I wasn’t nervous at all. I was actually kind of excited,” he said. “I was thinking about all my habits and tactics, and I’m proud of myself that I won.”
Martinasevic, who trains in Plantation, Florida, said he has been playing tennis since he was four years old. While he trains in different locations, he noted that much of his work happens close to home.
His focus in recent training has been specific and technical.
“Mostly my serve,” he explained. “Thinking about the habits that I have to do to make the serve deeper and higher. Also on my backhand, to have the take-back right away—split step out right away so you can have your racket ready.”
That attention to detail translated into confidence on court.
“It was amazing,” he said about his first match. “It was such a cool experience and I can’t wait for the next match.”
Beyond competing, Martinasevic also emphasized learning by observing others.
“I like to watch different players and different strategies,” he said.
When it comes to his game, he already has a clear strength.
“Definitely my forehand,” he said. “I have the most power on it, and I feel like it’s the easiest shot to hit to wherever the opponent’s weakness is.”
His long-term goal is just as clear.
“To become the best in the world.”
That mindset, combined with a strong debut performance, made his run at the Little Mo Regionals a notable one—especially considering it was his first time competing.
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