Coach Spotlight: Krisjanis Stabins

In this edition of our SPC Coach Spotlight Series, we catch up with long-time SPC member Krisjanis Stabins 🇱🇻 — a highly respected Latvian coach whose journey spans from junior European success to coaching elite WTA players and leading his national team.

From competing as a teenager to now serving as Billie Jean King Cup Captain for Team Latvia, Krisjanis shares his passion for player development, family life, and the growing strength of Latvian tennis.

Good morning Krisjanis Stabins, it’s great to have you as our guest in our new series of ‘Coach Spotlights’… Please tell our readers a little about you and your career in tennis so far.

A: Good morning Mark, and thank you for the great opportunity to be part of “Coach Spotlights.”
Firstly, I’d like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work you’re doing. SPC is shaping lives by offering global job opportunities and building valuable connections. It’s a privilege to be part of this organisation.

I’m from Latvia — a small but sport-oriented country in the Baltics. We’re well known for ice hockey and basketball, but over the past 30 years tennis has also become a major force, with players like Jelena Ostapenko, Anastasija Sevastova, Darja Semenistaja and Ernests Gulbis leading the way.

My journey with tennis began at seven years old. By 16, I’d finished third in the U16 European Individual Championships, and the following year I earned my first ATP points. Unfortunately, my playing career was cut short during the 2008 global financial crisis, as my family could no longer afford to support my tour costs.

That’s when I turned to coaching — and 18 years later, I’ve never looked back. From hitting partner at a local club to coaching elite WTA players, it’s been a challenging but deeply fulfilling career.

You’ve been a member of SPC for many years. What has made you remain such a loyal member?

A: It’s the values that SPC represents. Over the years, I’ve watched the platform evolve into one of the leading global tennis job networks. Mark and his team constantly look for ways to improve and create new opportunities for coaches.

I’m very passionate about my work, and I believe that surrounding yourself with people who strive to be better every day makes a real difference. That’s what SPC does — it keeps raising the bar.

You’re clearly very active in Latvian tennis — what are you currently working on?

A: The last few years have been very special for me. Becoming Billie Jean King Cup Captain for Team Latvia was a huge honour and responsibility.

This year’s Wimbledon was also unforgettable. During the grass season, I supported Jelena Ostapenko, and we reached the Wimbledon doubles final — a bittersweet moment, but one I’ll always treasure.

In 2024, I achieved another milestone with one of my junior players, Laima Vladson (ITF No.13). I’ve coached Laima since she was ten, and last year she played her first Roland Garros Junior Grand Slam, which was one of our shared goals.

Outside of professional and junior tennis, I also work with young children — and together with my wife, we’re raising our two daughters, which keeps life full and balanced.

How is Latvian tennis doing overall? Any rising stars to watch?

A: I’m quite optimistic, especially on the women’s side. We have strong young talents like:

Beatrise Zeltina – ITF No.25
Adelina Lacinova – Top 500 WTA at just 17
Keisija Berzina – U14 Wimbledon runner-up
Darina Matvejeva – U14 European Champion
Tina Jansone – One of Europe’s top U12 players

With the boys, it’s a bit more challenging, but I’m hopeful we’ll see more players choosing to pursue professional careers in the coming years.

You’ve mentioned your young family — do you have a dream job in tennis, and how would travel affect family life?

A: I’ve been lucky in my career so far, and I’m extremely grateful for my family’s support — especially my wife, who has been my biggest supporter from day one.

As a family man, being present for my kids is important, so I carefully consider any opportunity that involves extensive travel. Recently, I’ve become very interested in college coaching and collaborations with tennis federations. But overall, I stay open to a wide range of tennis opportunities.

What are your short-, medium-, and long-term professional goals?

A: My goal is simple — to keep learning, improving, and sharing knowledge. Whether through working with players, teams, or federations, I want to help people reach their potential and achieve success at the highest level of our sport.

Quick-fire Questions

Padel, Pickleball or Beach Tennis? I used to play Beach Tennis, but my favourite is Padel.
Dream Holiday Destination: Somewhere warm with my wife and kids.
If you weren’t a tennis coach: I’d be a sports lawyer — I have a law degree.
First Coach: Janis Zvilna – grateful to him for introducing me to this beautiful sport.
Favourite Sports (outside tennis): Basketball and Padel.
Favourite Colour: Blue.
Sporting Heroes: Roger Federer, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan.
Favourite Tournament: Wimbledon.

Closing

Thank you, Krisjanis, for sharing your story and your insights into Latvian tennis. From competing as a junior to guiding top professionals and national teams, your career is a true reflection of dedication and growth.

Inspired by Krisjanis’ story?

▪️ Explore tennis coaching jobs worldwide: www.sportsprosconnect.com/jobs/
▪️ Join SPC today and connect with our global network of coaches.
▪️ Follow Krisjanis on Instagram
▪️ Check out Krisjanis’ SPC profile here: https://sportsprosconnect.com/profiles/krisjanisstabins/

October 16, 2025 Categories: Interviews