Anna 
Competition may look different from her days at Roland Garros and Wimbledon, but Anda Perianu still knows how to win. After 38 years on the court, the former pro and current manager of the Reis Tennis Center played a key role in securing victory for the U.S. team at the International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Team Championship on March 14 in Manavgat, Turkey.
Competing in the 40s age bracket, Perianu and her four-woman squad defeated Switzerland, Ireland, Argentina, and three-time defending champion Germany to claim the title.
A Long-Awaited Triumph
For Perianu, this victory was more than just another win—it was redemption.
“I played in this tournament in 2018, 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024,” she said. “I have three silver medals from the previous tournaments, and I’ve lost them all to Germany in the finals, so this was a long time coming.”
The ITF World Tennis Masters Tour brings together former college and professional players who still have a passion for competition. While they may not be in their prime, they still find ways to succeed.
“We call it ‘winning ugly’ – finding a way,” Perianu said.
A Lifelong Passion for Tennis
Perianu’s tennis journey began at age 7 in her native Romania. She later earned a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma, where she became an All-American. Her professional career took her to Grand Slam tournaments, including the French Open and Wimbledon, and she climbed as high as No. 120 in the world rankings.
Since joining Cornell as the director of the Reis Tennis Center in 2012, Perianu has balanced managing memberships, clinics, and programs with her love for the sport. She leads a weekly women’s clinic, where her impact extends beyond competition.
“Some of the ladies are a true inspiration,” she said. “Even though they’re not going to compete at a high level, they still want to get better.”
Patti McClary, a Cornell retiree and longtime clinic participant, appreciates Perianu’s keen eye for improvement.
“She helps keep us motivated,” McClary said. “She’s very perceptive. She’ll notice little things that you can change to improve.”
Looking Ahead
Although she balances work and family life—her husband, Silviu Tanasoiu, is the head men’s tennis coach at Cornell—Perianu still finds time to compete. She plans to enter more national tournaments next year to qualify for another shot at the ITF World Championships.
“I would like to defend that title next year,” she said. “It felt really good winning it.”
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