From Hollywood to the US Open: Teen Tennis Star Makes Grand Slam Debut

At just 17, Thea Frodin has already had a small role in one of Hollywood’s most celebrated tennis films. On Tuesday, the Los Angeles high school student stepped onto an even bigger stage, making her US Open main-draw debut.

Frodin faced a formidable opponent in her first Grand Slam appearance — second-seeded Elena Rybakina, the reigning Australian Open champion and former Wimbledon winner. Rybakina produced a powerful display to defeat Frodin 6-3, 6-2 in 1 hour and 14 minutes without dropping her serve.

“I obviously had a tough first round. Rybakina is a great player,” Frodin said. She earned her place in the US Open main draw after winning the US national 18-and-under championship, which secured her a wild card.

“I tried going out there to see what it would be like, just to feel no pressure, go out there and have a fun time,” Frodin said. “I feel like that’s what I accomplished. Obviously, I have a lot to learn, but I’m excited about most of the things I did out there.”

Rybakina was impressed with the teenager’s performance, saying Frodin “played really well today.”

Frodin’s connection to Hollywood dates back to when she was 12. She served as the stunt and body double for Demi Singleton, who portrayed a young Serena Williams in the Oscar-winning film King Richard, which tells the story of Richard Williams and the rise of his daughters Serena and Venus.

Although Frodin has yet to meet Serena Williams, she hopes to do so someday. For now, she has not decided whether to pursue college tennis or turn professional.

“I think I’m trying to just finish high school and see where the rest of this year takes me,” Frodin said. “I’m not rushing into making a decision about all that.”

Despite the loss, Frodin is already looking ahead to a potential rematch with Rybakina.

“Hopefully, the next time I meet her, if I do, I can be more experienced and see what I can do,” she said.