Li Tu is one of the most inspiring stories in Australian tennis today. After quitting the sport as a teenager to pursue a “normal life” and a university degree, he made a remarkable comeback in his mid-20s that took him all the way to Grand Slam center courts.
Now competing against the world’s best, fans are eager to know more about the man behind this incredible journey.
In this article, you will know Li Tu’s net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Li Tu’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Li Tu |
| Date of Birth | May 27, 1996 |
| Age | 29 |
| Education | University of Adelaide (Bachelor of Commerce) |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 183 cm (6 ft 0 in) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2020 (Return to Professional Tennis) |
| Current Coach | Ben Milner, David Macpherson |
| Net Worth | ~$500,000 – $1 Million (Estimated) |
| Career Prize Money | ~$907,417 USD |
| Wife | Kimberley Tu |
| Instagram Profile | @li_tu_tennis |
Early Career
Li Tu’s early career was marked by immense promise followed by a surprising pivot. Growing up in Adelaide, he was a standout junior player, representing Australia in the Junior Davis Cup alongside future stars like Thanasi Kokkinakis.
By age 15, he was traveling the world and competing at a high level. However, the pressure and loneliness of the tour took a toll on him. At just 18 years old, despite his potential, he decided to walk away from professional tennis.
During his time away from the court, Li Tu focused on his education and personal growth. He enrolled at the University of Adelaide, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree.
He didn’t leave tennis completely, though; he founded his own tennis academy and became a respected coach for junior players.
This period of coaching helped him rediscover his love for the game from a new perspective, eventually fueling his desire to compete again.
Professional Career
In 2020, six years after playing his last professional match, Li Tu decided to give his playing career another shot. He started dominating the local Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) pro series in Australia during the pandemic, winning nearly every match he played.
His form was so impressive that he was awarded a wildcard into the 2021 Australian Open, marking his Grand Slam debut.
Since his return, Tu has climbed the rankings steadily. His breakout moment came in October 2022 when he won his first ATP Challenger title in Seoul, South Korea, defeating Wu Yibing in the final. This victory propelled him into the world’s top 200.
In 2024, he qualified for the US Open main draw, where he faced world number three Carlos Alcaraz in a high-profile match on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Although he lost, taking a set off the Spanish superstar proved he belonged at the elite level.
He continued his momentum into 2025, competing in the Australian Open main draw against Jiri Lehecka.
Wife
Li Tu is happily married to Kimberley Tu. Their love story is unique; they met on a flight from Sydney to Adelaide in 2020. Li admitted he was too nervous to speak to her, so Kimberley made the first move to say hello.
They quickly formed a strong bond that supported Li through his return to professional tennis.
The couple married on September 3, 2022. The wedding was originally planned for November of that year, but they moved the date forward due to the declining health of Li’s mother, who was battling cancer.
This allowed his mother to witness their special day before she passed away shortly after. Li often credits Kimberley as his rock, stating he “couldn’t have done it without her” support during the difficult times of losing his mother and grinding on the tennis tour.
Coach
Li Tu’s primary coach is Ben Milner, who has been instrumental in his comeback. Milner helped Tu transition from a coach back to a player, working on his fitness and tactical game.
In late 2024, Tu added significant experience to his team by hiring David Macpherson. Macpherson is a world-class coach who previously worked with the legendary Bryan brothers and American giant John Isner.
This addition signals Tu’s ambition to break into the top 100.
Li Tu’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Li Tu’s estimated net worth is between $500,000 and $1 Million USD. This wealth comes primarily from his tournament prize money since his return to the sport, as well as income from his previous coaching academy.
Career Earnings
| Year | Level | Prize Money (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | ATP/Challenger | ~$100,000+ |
| 2024 | ATP/Grand Slam | ~$246,200 |
| 2025 | ATP/Grand Slam | ~$305,167* |
| Career Total | ~$907,417 |
Career Stats
| Category | Wins | Losses | Titles |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATP Challenger Singles | 1 Title | 2 Runner-ups | 1 |
| ITF World Tour Singles | 9 Titles | 4 Runner-ups | 9 |
| ATP Tour Matches | 2 | 12 | 0 |
| Highest Ranking | #160 | N/A | N/A |
FAQs
1. Why did Li Tu quit tennis as a teenager?
Li Tu quit tennis at age 18 because he felt burnt out and lonely on the tour. He wanted to experience a normal life, get a university education, and escape the intense pressure of professional competition.
2. What is Li Tu’s highest ATP ranking?
Li Tu achieved a career-high ATP singles ranking of World No. 160. He reached this milestone as he began finding consistent success on the ATP Challenger Tour.
3. Who is Li Tu’s wife?
Li Tu is married to Kimberley Tu. They met on a plane in 2020 and got married in September 2022. She travels with him on tour and is a major source of support.
4. Did Li Tu play Carlos Alcaraz?
Yes, Li Tu played Carlos Alcaraz in the first round of the 2024 US Open. Tu won the third set in a thrilling tiebreak before eventually losing the match in four sets.
5. What degree does Li Tu have?
Li Tu holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Adelaide. He completed his studies during his six-year hiatus from professional tennis.
