Tuscaloosa Academy is proud to announce the incredible achievements of 17-year-old Jonni Kneer in the fields of tennis and soccer. With his recent triumph at the 2024 AHSAA tennis state championships, where he secured the Class 1A-3A boys No. 1 singles and doubles state titles, Jonni has now amassed an impressive six tennis state championships during his time as a high school athlete.
Hailing from Germany, Jonni and his family relocated to Tuscaloosa in 2009, and he has since dedicated himself to excelling in both academics and sports at Tuscaloosa Academy.
Having already clinched four AISA tennis state titles and two AISA soccer state titles prior to his recent victory, Jonni’s exemplary discipline and talent have been evident throughout his athletic career. His coach, Clete Browder, attests to Jonni’s exceptional work ethic and unwavering commitment to his sport, which sets him apart as a truly remarkable competitor.
While Jonni acknowledges that he initially viewed tennis as a recreational pursuit, his innate talent and competitive spirit quickly transformed it into a serious endeavor. Since joining the Tuscaloosa Academy tennis team in the fifth grade, Jonni has consistently made strides in the sport, achieving his first state title at the age of 13.
Throughout his journey, Jonni attributes much of his competitive nature to the influence of his older brother, Oli, who also excelled in sports. He views their sibling rivalry as a driving force behind his continuous desire to improve and learn from each match, regardless of the outcome.
In addition to his accomplishments in high school tennis, Jonni routinely competes in USTA tournaments throughout the year, often travelling with his father to various tournaments across the Southeast. His participation in the esteemed Orange Bowl International Tennis Championships in Miami, Florida has left a lasting impression on him, igniting his determination to return to the tournament in the near future.
Despite his youth, Jonni has already set his sights on the future, aspiring to play college tennis with a particular interest in joining the University of Alabama’s tennis team. His outstanding track record of 98 wins in the No. 1 spot for the Knights, as well as his national ranking as the No. 998 player by the USTA, positions him as a potentially invaluable asset to collegiate tennis.
In an era where young athletes are constantly pushing boundaries, Jonni Kneer’s journey as a six-time tennis state champion stands as a testament to the impact of unwavering dedication and hard work. As he continues to refine his skills and chase his dreams, there is no doubt that Jonni’s name will resonate throughout the world of tennis for years to come.