Identifying a tennis prodigy involves recognizing a combination of physical, mental, and emotional characteristics that set these young players apart from their peers. Based on the information from various sources, here are key indicators of a potential tennis prodigy:

1. Maturity and Emotional Control: Tennis prodigies often display a level of maturity beyond their years. This can be evident in the way they communicate, their focus, determination, and the refined mannerisms and body language they exhibit on the court. These young players may show a presence and self-discipline similar to top adult professionals, even at a very young age.

2. Passion and Love for the Game: A defining characteristic of prodigies is their deep love for tennis. This passion drives them to practice and play extensively, more so than their peers. They often show an enthusiasm for every aspect of the game, from the physical play to the tactical challenges.

3. Discipline and Work Ethic: Prodigy players tend to have an unusual level of dedication for their age. This is often linked to their maturity and passion for the game. They are willing to engage in extensive training sessions with deep focus, exceeding the typical concentration span of other children their age.

4. Goal Setting and Clarity of Vision: Many tennis prodigies have clear and specific goals from a young age. They possess a remarkable clarity about their future in tennis and what they aim to achieve, often setting ambitious and well-defined objectives for themselves.

5. Growth Mindset and Coachability: Prodigies usually have a great respect for their coaches and a strong willingness to learn and improve. They tend to be open to experimentation and quick to learn from their mistakes, making every practice session efficient and productive.

6. Physical Attributes and Athleticism: While not always a prerequisite, certain physical attributes can give young players an advantage. This includes natural athleticism, agility, and possibly inheriting physical traits from athletic parents. However, it’s important to note that mental and emotional aspects are often deemed more crucial than physicality.

7. Love for Competition and Resilience: Prodigies often exhibit a strong competitive spirit and resilience. They may show an exceptional desire to win and a tendency to persistently challenge themselves against stronger opponents, learning to cope with and overcome defeats.

8. Early Exposure to Tennis: Introducing children to tennis at a young age and fostering a playful and enjoyable approach to the sport can be beneficial. This early exposure allows them to develop a love for the game and start building their skills at a young age.

9. Balancing Tennis with Other Aspects of Life: Ensuring a well-rounded development is crucial. This includes balancing tennis with academics, social interactions, and other interests, which contributes to the holistic growth of a young tennis player.

In summary, a tennis prodigy typically exhibits a combination of emotional maturity, deep passion for the game, disciplined work ethic, clear goal setting, a growth mindset, physical athleticism, love for competition, early exposure to the sport, and a well-balanced lifestyle. These traits, nurtured properly, can set the foundation for a successful career in tennis.

For more detailed insights, you can explore the articles from The Prodigy Maker​​, Sports Glitz​​, Tennis Vital​​, and New York Tennis Magazine​​.