After a breakthrough 2013 where he saw his ranking climb an impressive 95 spots, Canadian tennis powerhouse and rising star, Vasek Pospisil, signed a new multi-year sponsorship agreement with Asics America. His unique story and determination to succeed both on and off the tennis court make him a strong fit for the brand’s growing tennis team. As Canada’s no. 2 in singles and doubles, Pospisil represented Canada in the 2012 London Olympics and finished 2013 with an ATP singles ranking of 32.

“Asics embodies the high standard of continuous improvement that I have always valued in my own training and life, both on and off the court, which is why I am thrilled to continue my relationship with the team,” said Pospisil. “At a young age, I learned the importance of competition from watching my two brothers play tennis, and I have carried this with me every day since. I look forward to a strong year ahead with support from the brand and access to its top-of-the-line footwear, apparel, and accessories to help take me to the next level.”

Born in Vernon, British Columbia, Pospisil currently trains in Bradenton, Fla. His unique introduction to tennis started when his father developed a passion for the sport after the family moved from the Czech Republic to Vernon. Growing up watching his father coach his two older brothers, Pospisil was overflowing with enthusiasm when he was finally old enough to join them on the courts. And by the age of 12, he was already the best in the country and considered one of the best in the world for his age. His training and success continued under his father who coached him until he was 20 years old at which time the family hired professional coaches to further Pospisil’s growth and success.

“Vasek’s background and ongoing determination is an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to call him a member of our Asics athlete family,” commented Ryan Broccolo, Asics America tennis promotions. “Still early in his career, he already has a wealth of experience yet maintains his curiosity to learn and his drive to improve. Vasek showed great promise in 2013, and we know he will continue to better his best in the year ahead. We are looking forward to supporting him as he continues to climb the rankings in 2014.”

The extended partnership launches as Pospisil begins 2014 with his first top 40 ranking in his career. Pospisil, who first signed with Asics America in 2013, will continue wearing Asics footwear, apparel and accessories both on the court and during his training. His tennis shoe of choice is the low profile, light weight Asics GEL-SolutionĀ® Speed 2. Pospisil will hit the court next at the BNP Paribas Open in Indian Wells, Calif. this week.