“I have no idea why that video went viral. I only won three points,” said Bond. “But it was probably the happiest I’ve felt after a loss. It made the loss so much better.”

The clip gained so much traction that Canadian rapper Drake ended up following her on Instagram.

“I think it’s so cool he followed me,” she mentioned. “I’m very grateful for all the attention.” 

Since going viral, Bond has been posting practice sessions, warmups, and match highlights, including her recent women’s singles victory over Nicole Conard.

But with so many new fans watching her every move, is the added attention putting more pressure on her game?

“I don’t feel all that different, to be honest. I feel like I’m still very grounded. I’m still just as goofy and friendly. I have the same energy in person. It’s just now that my Instagram looks cooler. That’s about it,” explained Bond. “I feel no added pressure on the court because I went viral and I only won three points, so there’s literally no pressure. I’m just learning, playing, and getting better.”

Bond sees the surge in attention as a source of encouragement and a sign that she’s moving in the right direction.

“I’m so clear on my purpose in my life, so the attention doesn’t really deter me or distract me,” emphasized Bond. “To me, this is just more signs that I’m on the right track and I’m moving in the right direction.”

While Bond loves competing on tour, it’s not her only passion.

In 2020, she co-founded Waev, a swimwear and athletic wear brand. Looking ahead, she hopes to leverage her growing platform to share her story and make a positive impact with her voice.

“My purpose isn’t sports-related. I want to inspire people. One day, I hope I can share my story of growing up in a difficult situation and how I was able to make a life and career for myself,” concluded Bond. “That’s a story I’ll have to share in 20 years or so. I’ll share more of my story one day.”

For now, Bond’s match highlights and glimpses of life on the pro circuit are keeping her followers thoroughly entertained.

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