Thea Frodin made her professional Grand Slam debut at the US Open in New York, stepping into the main draw at just 17 years old after playing a role in the biographical drama film “King Richard” as a youth, according to reports from tennisnet.com. The Los Angeles student secured her spot in the tournament by winning the United States under-18 championship title, earning a wild card into the main draw.
Facing world number two Jelena Rybakina in the opening round, Frodin fell in straight sets with a score of 3:6, 2:6. Despite the defeat, the young American competed against the player. “Obviously, I had a tough first round. Rybakina is a great player,” Frodin said, as reported by tennisnet.com. “I tried to go out there and just have fun.”
From the Silver Screen to Flushing Meadows
Long before earning her championship credentials on the junior circuit, Frodin gained early experience in the entertainment industry. At twelve years old, she worked as a stunt and body double for actress Demi Singleton, who portrayed a young Serena Williams in the feature film “King Richard.” Years after standing in for the cinematic version of the tennis icon, Frodin mirrored Williams’ path by reaching the professional tour in New York.
Despite her Hollywood connection, Frodin noted that she has not yet crossed paths with her idol in person. Opportunities for an introduction could still arise during the fortnight, as the 44-year-old Serena Williams remains active on the tournament grounds alongside her sister Venus Williams in the doubles draw, according to event reports.
Tournament Context and Next Steps
For Frodin, advancing through the junior ranks to test herself against elite professional competition marked a major milestone in her developing career. Competing on the hard courts provided the teenager with direct exposure to top-tier Grand Slam tennis.
