Lori Robertson prepares to hit a clean lefty backhand. Courtesy photo

Age is just a number. At 65 years old, Lori Robertson of Kula reflects with gratitude on a tennis journey that began at age 10 — appreciating the sport’s lifelong impact and the opportunities it’s brought her along the way.

Having competed in tennis from age 10 through middle school, high school and at the collegiate level at Texas Christian University, Robertson never let go of her passion for the sport. While tennis didn’t become her full-time profession, she continued to compete in individual tournaments across the country alongside her professional career — keeping her love for the game alive and thriving.

“My first national adult tournament was when I was 35,” Robertson recalled. “I traveled sporadically to play national tournaments when I was 45, again when I was 50. I retired at 60 and began traveling to play all over the U.S. in 2023.”

Living life by continuing childhood passions is incredibly fulfilling for Robertson, who says that just because you’re no longer on a team, that doesn’t mean you have to stop doing what you love.

Tennis offers a great example — it’s a sport that naturally evolves with you and can be enjoyed at almost any age.

Robertson is a member of the United States Tennis Association, as well as the National Women’s Tennis Organization and International Tennis Federation. In the 65-plus division, the ITF North/Central America & Caribbean World Tennis Masters Tour recently ranked her 23rd in doubles and 146th in singles.

“I have a full and happy life, and tennis is only a part of it,” Robertson said. “But I cannot imagine life without tennis. It has been so good to me. As a teenager, it kept me from wandering into all kinds of trouble. Later by earning a scholarship, tennis paid my way through college, throughout my life so many of the friendships I’ve made have been through tennis.”

As Robertson reflects on her tennis journey, she said there are a few key lessons she would tell her younger self — words of wisdom shaped by years of experience on and off the court.

“If you have talent, advocate for yourself,” she said. “Don’t be shy about finding opportunities to get instruction and coaching and to get on teams and earn scholarships. Compete on teams, not just individually. Winning as a team is truly more rewarding. Whatever your level of tennis, enjoy it. You can play it for a lifetime.”

Tennis may be just a game, but for senior players, it can create lasting bonds.

Many still travel the world to compete with familiar faces from club or college days — reliving cherished memories and the deep sense of nostalgia that the sport brings. It’s a powerful reminder of how tennis continues to connect people across time and distance.

Robertson’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and play. For her, tennis has been more than a game — it’s been a source of growth, connection and joy, as well as a nice reminder that it’s never too late to do what you love.