Niels Hoffmann — Power in Persistence

For Niels Hoffmann, tennis has always been more than just competition. It is about resilience, discipline, and finding the small moments that keep you moving forward. As he enters his sophomore year at USC, Niels has already learned that progress comes not only from the hours on the court, but also from the balance you create off it.

Q: How do you balance school, training, and competing and still find time to show up every day with energy?

Niels: I balance school, training, all that with just being able to find those days where you can reset. Whether that’s binge watching a TV show or just kicking it with your friends, finding some time for yourself, and not having to think about school or tennis all that much.

Q: How much of your success do you attribute to luck, and how much to skill and hard work?

Niels: I’d have to attribute basically everything to hard work. Of course, skill always plays a part, especially what you’re given at a young age. But when it comes to hard work, there are very few things that can top that.

Q: What is something you do every single day, no matter what, that keeps you sharp and ready to compete?

Niels: One of the big things that keeps me sharp and ready to compete is staying in shape. Whether that’s keeping my cardio up by going on a run, or always working out to the max on the court, it really keeps me in shape.

Q: What does everyday matters mean to you personally?

Niels: Everyday matters means showing up even when you don’t feel like it. It’s waking up at 6:30 to go hit the gym. It’s staying after practice to hit serves and really try to better yourself.

Q: What’s your most regular pregame ritual? Be honest.

Niels: My most regular pregame ritual every time has to be having a coffee. If I’m not awake and really feeling it, then I’m no good out there.

Q: You’ve had a brutal match, you’re drenched in sweat, and there’s one thing you always do right after. What is it?

Niels: I love nothing more than to take off my ankle brace or the tape, and just kick off the shoes and feel the relief of being off the court.

Q: If your training playlist had to be one song on repeat for a month, what would it be?

Niels: My training playlist had to be one song on repeat for a month, it has to be Power by Kanye West.

For Niels, persistence is power. From the early morning gym sessions to the rituals that keep him sharp, he shows how small choices add up to long-term success. His story reminds us that every day is an opportunity to build something greater — one rep, one serve, one step at a time.