text: how to become a professional tennis player if i'm from philippines ( where tennis isn't popular)? well since i'm from philippines tennis is rarely heard here...philippines tennis players was never able to join the atp rankings i wonder why?? is it because we dont have pro players like the ones in america??? im planning on becoming a pro player for you, it'll be like trying to ice skate uphill.  you are at a severe disadvantage.  first, you are nowhere near a good facility to practice.  i guess you could beat a ball against a wall (that's what i did for my first 2 years), but without someone to play against, you won't improve much.  second, you don't have access to a good coach.  without a coach, progress will be very slow.  if you're serious about going pro, find a coach - now.  if you can't afford a private coach, find some videos or dvds that will show you drills that you can do on your own.  and never underestimate the importance of good footware.  i've gone through cheap shoes (us$20) in a single day of practice.  good luck