Seventeen-year-old Cassius Haye, already carving a path on the ATP Tour, is showing the size, poise, and power of a professional boxer — and the Haye legacy is impossible to ignore.
While his tennis career is in its infancy — official prize money totaling just $96 — it’s impossible not to notice the familiar mold of athleticism and explosive potential that runs deep in the Haye family.
His frame, stance, and awareness mirror his father at the same age — the same traits that propelled David Haye to WBA, WBC, and WBO cruiserweight glory before storming into the heavyweight spotlight, toppling the likes of Nikolai Valuev, Derek Chisora, and Audley Harrison.
If Cassius ever decided to swap the court for the ring, the genetics, athleticism, and discipline are already in place.
Haye Family DNA: Elite Athletes Across the Board
Former world title challenger Ashley Theophane said, “Apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” while legendary trainer Ismael Salas remarked, “Oh wow, D — how he’s growing.” Former cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie added, “When hard work meets genetics.”
Athleticism clearly runs in the family. Cassius’ younger brother Kingston recently signed for Arsenal Football Club and is already tipped for stardom, proving the Haye DNA produces elite talent across multiple sports.
David Haye: Still a Respected Voice
David Haye has maintained a relatively low profile in recent years, but he remains one of boxing’s most respected voices. His recent tribute to the late Ricky Hatton revealed the man behind the champion:
“Ricky was a brother in this sport. When I saw him train, fight, and give it his all, I saw a man who defined what being a champion truly means. Not just belts and wins, but grit, humility, kindness, and loyalty. He wasn’t perfect, but he was real, honest to the core.”
It’s the same mindset that guided Haye through a career marked by knockout power, fearless aggression, and the ability to reinvent himself across two weight classes.
Boxing’s Eyes Are Watching
Cassius’ tennis results may look modest on paper, but the boxing world can already see a spark. His size, coordination, and mental focus hint at a future that could mirror his father’s path — a journey where speed, power, and ring IQ define the game.
Whether on the tennis court or in the boxing ring, the Haye family proves that talent, discipline, and determination are inherited as naturally as muscle memory.
Cassius may be a tennis prospect today, but the boxing world will be watching — because when you carry the Haye name, it’s impossible not to notice.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights.
[View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.