The US Open Grand Slam is a pinnacle event in the world of tennis and the excitement is building as players from around the world prepare to compete on the iconic courts at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in the heart of New York.
Among the stars set to compete in the tournament are a group of talented USTA Florida pro players who are poised to make their mark at this prestigious American event. Let’s take a closer look at the Florida players who will be chasing glory in the US Open.
Coco Gauff won the Souther and Western Open, the youngest to do so.
Leading the way is Coco Gauff, who has taken the tennis world by storm. The teen is fresh off her best win ever, taking home the Western & Southern Open. She became the youngest player, at age 19, to win this tournament. She will ride this momentum into the US Open and can definitely repeat her performance.
Ben Shelton, a rising star from Gainesville, is another Florida player to watch. Shelton’s rapid rise in the tennis ranks showcases his incredible work ethic and dedication to the sport. This will be his second appearance at the US Open.
Another player, Danielle Collins, has seen success on the brightest stages. A former runner-up at the Australian Open and someone who has made it into the late stages of every Grand Slam, is looking to get over the finish line and win her first major title.
Sofia Kenin adds her name to the list of Florida talents. A reigning Australian Open champion is eager to find her second Grand Slam win, and what better way than to do it on home soil.
Sebastian Korda joins the US Open field.
Sebastian Korda and Sloane Stephens also join the impressive Florida lineup. Korda is making his second appearance at the American Grand Slam event. Stephens, a former US Open champion, has what it takes to win another title.
Already a Major champion this year, Florida Doubles phenom, Austin Krajicek, is expected to play at this year’s US Open and looking to stay hot from his French Open win. Himself and partner Ivan Dodig (Croatia) enter as the No. 2 Ranked duo in the world and are definitely looking to put on a show for the American crowd.
Also, likely to join on the Doubles side, is Nicole Melichar-Martinez. She reached the US Open finals in 2020, but this time around wants to change that narrative and lift the trophy at the end. Alongside her partner, Ellen Perez (Australia) they enter the open as No. 6 ranked pair in the world and are expected to be a threat in this tournament. Final doubles draws will be released on Saturday, August 26.
At of the time of this writing, two additional Florida-grown players are battling in the qualifying round in hopes to make the main draw of the tournament. Elizabeth Mandlik, a rising young player, is looking to become one of tennis’ next stars. Sachia Vickery looks to make her sixth appearance in the US Open main draw and her first since 2020. Friday, August 25 is expected to be the last day of qualifying play.
Florida is thrilled to follow this group of talented players at the US Open. With the crowd in their favor, anything can happen. To stay updated on their performances throughout the event, check back at our News page and follow USTA Florida on Instagram.
