Prime Minister Carney hosts Canadian tennis star Mboko on Parliament Hill

Prime Minister Mark Carney, left, reacts as Canadian tennis champion Victoria Mboko signs her tennis racket used to win the 2025 National Bank Open in Montreal during a meeting on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby

OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Canadian tennis star Victoria Mboko to Parliament Hill on Wednesday, telling the Toronto teen that Canadians are proud of her breakthrough season on the WTA Tour.

Carney met with the 19-year-old Mboko and members of her family at his West Block office and got a first-hand look at the trophy she won at this National Bank Open this summer in Montreal.

The Prime Minister said the trophy was a symbol of perseverance, resilience and immense talent. He said Mboko was a great role model and that Canadians are proud of what she has accomplished at a young age.

After his remarks, Mboko signed the tennis racket that she used in the winning match in Montreal. Carney gasped “no way!” and said it will be given pride of place.

Watching Carney twirl it around, Mboko said he could play with it if he wants. Carney laughed, saying his tennis game is not that good.

Mboko entered the tennis season ranked 350th in the world. She finished ranked a career-high 18th after winning two tournaments, including the WTA 1000-level National Bank Open.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 3, 2025.

The Canadian Press