Peyton Stearns smashes forehands like a pro, but what’s the scoop on her life off the tennis court? As an American tennis player climbing the WTA rankings, she’s caught fans’ eyes with her powerful game and down-to-earth vibe. Let’s explore her boyfriend, her passions, and the person behind the racquet.
Who Is Peyton Stearns Dating?
Peyton Stearns is dating Mick Assaf, a supportive partner who’s been by her side at major tournaments. Their relationship went public in March 2025, when Stearns posted a playful selfie with Assaf on social media, calling him “my GOAT” after a viral moment at the Miami Open. This confirmed months of speculation about her romantic life.
Stearns, private by nature, rarely shares personal details. Her openness about Assaf felt like a warm hug to fans craving a glimpse into her world. The couple’s chemistry shines at events, with Assaf cheering her on from the stands.
Meet Mick Assaf: Peyton’s Biggest Fan
Mick Assaf isn’t just Peyton Stearns’ boyfriend; he’s her rock. As co-founder of a company, Assaf balances his professional life while being a fixture at Stearns’ matches. His presence at the 2025 Miami Open, where he was spotted shirtless behind Iga Swiatek during practice, sparked a viral buzz.
Stearns’ caption on that selfie showed her sense of humor, a trait fans adore. Assaf’s support goes beyond the court—he’s been credited as a key influence in her mental resilience. Their bond feels like a doubles team, each lifting the other up.
Clearing Up the Redfoo Rumor
Was Redfoo, Victoria Azarenka’s ex-boyfriend, ever linked to Peyton Stearns? In 2024, Redfoo was spotted in Stearns’ player box at the BNP Paribas Open, sparking rumors. He praised her forehand and work ethic, but clarified they were just friends.
Stearns’ focus remained on tennis, not tabloid chatter. The Redfoo buzz fizzled out, especially after she confirmed her relationship with Assaf. It’s a reminder to take gossip with a grain of salt.
Peyton’s Tennis Journey: From College to Pro
She played at the University of Texas, becoming the first Longhorn to win the NCAA women’s singles title in 2022. Her college stats boast an 18-8 freshman record and a 33-2 sophomore season.
Turning pro in 2022, Stearns climbed to a career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 42 in May 2025. Her aggressive baseline play and mental toughness have drawn comparisons to mentors like Danielle Collins. Tennis is her canvas, and she paints with bold strokes.
How Tall Is Peyton Stearns?
Peyton Stearns stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall. Her height gives her an edge in serving and covering the court, complementing her powerful groundstrokes. It’s one piece of the puzzle that makes her a rising star.
Life Beyond the Baseline
Stearns’ life isn’t all about tennis or her boyfriend. She’s a Jeep Wrangler enthusiast, often cruising around her hometown of Mason, Ohio. Her social media shows her soaking up moments with family and friends, from fishing trips to travel adventures in Madrid and Malibu.
Her hobbies paint a picture of a grounded 23-year-old. Whether she’s joking about her “unsponsored life” or sharing a laugh with fans, Stearns’ authenticity shines. She’s the friend you’d grab a coffee with, chatting about life’s ups and downs.
Peyton’s Roots and Family Ties
Born on October 8, 2001, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Stearns grew up in a sporty family. Her dad, Mike, played college tennis, while her mom, Denise, was a gymnast at Texas. They nudged her toward tennis at age eight, after ruling out softball.
Her parents’ support is her backbone. They’ve been there through every milestone, from junior titles to her first WTA win at the 2023 ATX Open. Family keeps her grounded.
Her Breakthrough Moments
Stearns’ pro career kicked off with a bang. She reached the fourth round of the 2023 US Open, her best Grand Slam result, and won her first WTA title at the 2024 Rabat Grand Prix. Her 2025 Italian Open run, beating stars like Madison Keys and Naomi Osaka, cemented her as a contender.
Her prize money totals around $2.4 million, with endorsements from Nike and Wilson boosting her net worth to an estimated $1-2 million. Each victory is a stepping stone, building her legacy brick by brick.
The Viral Miami Moment
The 2025 Miami Open wasn’t just about tennis for Stearns. A fan’s post about a “shirtless diva” behind Swiatek during practice went viral. Stearns’ response—sharing a selfie with Assaf—showed her knack for turning gossip into a lighthearted moment.
It was a masterclass in handling fame. She didn’t dodge the spotlight; she redirected it with charm. Fans loved the glimpse into her playful side, making her even more relatable.
Why Fans Connect with Peyton
Stearns’ appeal goes beyond her forehand. Her honesty about struggles, like a rough start to 2024, resonates with fans. A heart-to-heart with Danielle Collins helped her rediscover her edge, proving she’s human, not a sports robot.
She keeps her personal life private but shares just enough to build trust. Her posts about Assaf or her Jeep feel like postcards from a friend. It’s why fans root for her, on and off the court.
Peyton’s Social Media Presence
Stearns is active on Instagram (@peystearns), with about 25,000 followers, and posts regularly about tennis, travel, and life. Her captions are witty, like when she poked fun at changing outfits mid-match at the 2023 US Open. She’s also on Facebook and Twitter, keeping fans in the loop.
Her social media isn’t polished or staged. It’s raw, real, and reflects her personality—a breath of fresh air in a world of curated feeds. She’s not chasing clout; she’s just being herself.
The Role of Mentorship
Danielle Collins, a former NCAA champion, has been a guiding light for Stearns. Their 2024 chat at Indian Wells helped Stearns shake off a losing streak. Collins’ advice—play fearless—was a game-changer.
Stearns also leans on coach Gabriel Trifu, a former pro who’s sharpened her game. Her support system, from Assaf to mentors, is like a pit crew keeping her engine running. It’s teamwork behind her solo sport.
Peyton’s Hobbies and Passions
When she’s not swinging a racquet, Stearns is out fishing or exploring new cities. Her Instagram highlights trips to Bogota, Rabat, and Croatia, showing a curious spirit. She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty or try something new.
Her love for her Jeep Wrangler is a running theme. It’s more than a car—it’s a symbol of her free-spirited nature.
The Pressure of Fame
Being a pro athlete isn’t all glamour. Stearns has spoken about the pressure of rankings and expectations. After a stellar 2023, she hit a rough patch in 2024, losing her first four matches.
Her turnaround came from mindset shifts, not just talent. She’s learned to play with “house money,” as she put it at Indian Wells—free of fear. It’s a lesson in resilience we can all borrow.
Peyton and Mick: A Team Effort
Assaf’s role in Stearns’ life isn’t just romantic. He’s a steady presence at tournaments, from Madrid to Rome. Their relationship feels balanced, with mutual respect at its core.
Stearns’ posts about Assaf are rare but heartfelt. When she shared that Miami selfie, it wasn’t just about squashing rumors—it was a nod to a partner who’s got her back. They’re like two peas in a pod, navigating her rising stardom together.
What’s Next for Peyton?
Stearns is gearing up for the 2025 Roland Garros, where she’s reached the third round before. Her clay-court game, honed in Rome and Madrid, makes her a dark horse. With Assaf and her team in her corner, she’s poised for more breakthroughs.
Her goal isn’t just titles—it’s growth. She wants to keep learning, improving, and enjoying the ride. That mindset makes her a player to watch, now and in the future.
Why Privacy Matters to Peyton
Stearns guards her personal life like a fortress. Before Assaf, there were no confirmed relationships in the public eye. Her focus on tennis over tabloids shows a maturity beyond her 23 years.
When she does share, like with Assaf, it’s on her terms. That respect for privacy earns trust from fans who want to know her, not invade her space.
Peyton’s Impact on Tennis
Stearns’ rise inspires young players, especially in the U.S. Her NCAA-to-pro path shows college tennis can be a launchpad. She’s proof you don’t need to skip school to chase dreams.
Her grit—fighting through tiebreaks and tough losses—sets an example. She’s not just playing for herself but for the next generation, showing what’s possible with heart and hustle.
Conclusion
Peyton Stearns is more than a tennis star or Mick Assaf’s girlfriend. She’s a 23-year-old finding her way, balancing love, family, and a demanding career. Her story—full of grit, humor, and heart—reminds us athletes are people chasing dreams.
Whether she’s smashing forehands or cruising in her Jeep, Stearns lives life on her terms. As she climbs the WTA ranks and shares snippets of her life with Assaf, she’s building a legacy of authenticity. Fans love her for it, and her journey’s just getting started.
