ATP Official Tournament

Donna Vekic reveals the one pre-match ritual she never skips in Umag

A relaxed conversation, stories from the world of professional tennis and time spent with fans marked Donna Vekic's appearance ahead of the final weekend of the ATP Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag. The one-on-one conversation was hosted by recreational tennis player and passionate tennis fan Ivan Vukusic, giving visitors the opportunity to hear firsthand how she prepares for the biggest matches, what happens behind the scenes of professional tennis and which ritual she never skips before stepping onto the court.
18 July 2026 By
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During a conversation with Ivan Vukusic, she shared what her pre-match routine looks like before taking part in the Stella Artois Perfect Serve Challenge.

A relaxed conversation, stories from the world of professional tennis and time spent with fans marked Donna Vekic's appearance ahead of the final weekend of the ATP Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag. The one-on-one conversation was hosted by recreational tennis player and passionate tennis fan Ivan Vukusic, giving visitors the opportunity to hear firsthand how she prepares for the biggest matches, what happens behind the scenes of professional tennis and which ritual she never skips before stepping onto the court.

Following the conversation, Donna took part in the Perfect Serve Challenge, where, together with a professional draught master, she demonstrated the official Stella Artois Perfect Serve ritual. Many visitors also accepted the challenge, showcasing their precision and winning limited-edition engraved Stella Artois glasses signed by Donna Vekic. The Perfect Serve ritual is built around five key steps for serving Stella Artois beer, with precision, focus and attention to detail reflecting the same values that connect world-class tennis with this iconic brand.

"The ATP tournament in Umag has a unique energy, and this year's gathering with fans in the Stella Artois zone exceeded all my expectations. Before every match, I have just one ritual I never give up – a cup of double espresso. That's my moment of focus before stepping onto the court. That's why I really liked the idea behind the Perfect Serve Challenge, because Stella Artois also celebrates a ritual where precision, attention to detail and consistency are equally important. It was wonderful to spend time with tennis fans away from the court, share part of my sporting journey with them and, at the same time, have fun through the Perfect Serve Challenge. Congratulations to the organizers on another outstanding tournament and a fantastic finish," said Donna Vekic.

During the conversation, Donna also reflected on the recent results that have marked the past few weeks of her season on the international tennis circuit. She celebrated a major victory at the prestigious WTA 500 tournament at Queen's Club in London, where she defeated Emma Raducanu in an exciting final to lift the trophy. At the same time, she also spoke about her early exit at Wimbledon, acknowledging that sport inevitably brings difficult moments as well. Donna openly admitted that she hates losing, describing it as her greatest inner motivation to keep improving and become an even better player. After a short break following the London tournaments, she says she feels refreshed and ready for the challenges ahead. The next chapter of her career will also feature a familiar face, as respected British coach David Felgate has rejoined her team. Felgate first coached Donna when she was just 12 years old, giving their renewed partnership a special emotional significance.

Donna Vekic's appearance once again confirmed that the ATP Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag is not only a world-class sporting event, but also a place where tennis fans can meet their sporting idols away from the court and become part of the unique Stella Artois experience.