__________
***24 year old Milan Pokrajac born in Croatia, moved to Canada at the age of 12, where he won two national junior titles, reached an ATP ranking of 411. The Big-Serving leftie was forced into semi-retirement by injuries. He took the time to go to university in 2009 where he proceeded to receive a Commerce and Business degree from the University of Toronto. He is now returning to the tour assisted by the Ontario Racquet Club and former ATP player Gary Muller who provides support for his reintegration into the pro ranks.***
__________
ONcourt: Where are you now in your career?
Milan Pokrajac: I have played some Futures tournament and got my ATP ranking in the 800’s. I am looking to move up to Challengers and be in top 200 within 18 months.
ONcourt: What stopped you in your first attempt on the pro tour?
Milan Pokrajac: The major problem I had was injuries which are now healed. Also when I was younger I really did not have better players to train with and it did affect my belief in my potential.
ONcourt: In retrospect what would you do differently if you had to start your tennis career over in Canada?
Milan Pokrajac: It probably would have been a good idea for me to train in a good Academy whether in or outside Canada. I also never really played international competition which affected my confidence.
ONcourt: What are your short term plans and will you stay in tennis after your career?
Milan Pokrajac: In the new year I will start playing futures before graduating to Challengers in a few months. I am more cautious about my fitness and my health through lots of regeneration exercise.
In the future I would like to get a Masters Degree and stay in business.