One Texas. One Tennis: Kenji Hashimoto

One Texas. One Tennis. is a series highlighting the many faces, voices and experiences of Texas Tennis. Everyone is welcome on the tennis court and when we’re open, we’re at our best. On courts across Texas, every player has a story and those stories show the true diversity and strength of our tennis community. Want to share your story: CLICK HERE

Kenji Hashimoto’s tennis journey is rooted in identity, resilience, and community. What began at age ten as a simple way to get outdoors quickly evolved from a fun childhood pastime into a competitive pursuit and a defining part of his life. Guided by the positive influence of his very first recreational coach, Hashimoto learned early on that the court is a place for joy as much as growth, a mindset that has helped him navigate both tough matches and life's broader challenges with steady optimism. After seamlessly finding his footing again within the vibrant community at Brookhaven, he has come to deeply appreciate how the sport breaks down barriers.

USTA Texas: How did you first get involved in tennis, and what kept you coming back to the court?

Kenji Hashimoto: I first got involved with tennis around 10 years old because my parents wanted me to get outdoors more and be more active.  Initially, it was just fun and I was decent at it.  Then, I liked the competition as a junior.  Then, it became a part of my identity.

USTA Texas: Who in the tennis community has had the biggest impact on your journey? And why?

Hashimoto: My very first tennis instructor with the local recreation department. He made it fun and was so positive.

USTA Texas: What is one lesson tennis has taught you that you carry with you off the court?

Hashimoto: There will always be bad points, bad games, bad matches and even bad weeks. But, things always turn around to have positive moments so keep your head about you.

USTA Texas: What is it about the tennis community that helps people from different backgrounds connect?

Hashimoto: Common sport, common rules, and common conditions. It's always a struggle, but in the end, we're playing a "game" and we're not playing for our living.

USTA Texas: What is one thing we can all do to make tennis more welcoming and inclusive for everyone?

Hashimoto: Making it easy for people to find their right level and a group of people at that level. I’ve had the fortune of "restarting" tennis with Brookhaven where there are lots of players at all levels, and the head of racquet sports hit with me to give an estimate of what level I should be playing with. It was super easy to "break in".

USTA Texas : What does “One Texas. One Tennis.” mean to you?

Hashimoto: All of us are Texans, and all of us love tennis. This is regardless of our backgrounds or our tennis levels.  This state and this sport welcome all of us.