How will Florida players fare at the French Open this year?

Anticipation is high as the 2024 French Open is here and action kicked off this weekend. USTA Florida is proudly represented by ten exceptional athletes ready to showcase their talents on the iconic red clay courts of Roland Garros at one of tennis’s most prestigious Grand Slam tournaments.  

Representing the men in Singles are Ben Shelton and Sebastian Korda, while Austin Krajicek will play in doubles. On the women’s side, the Singles competitors include Coco Gauff, Danielle Collins, Sloane Stephens, Sofia Kenin, Sachia Vickery, Amanda Anisimova, and then Nicole Melichar-Martinez, will compete in doubles. 

One of the rising stars in American tennis, Ben Shelton has been making waves on the ATP tour with his powerful serve and aggressive baseline play. As he steps onto the courts of Roland Garros, fans are eager to see him capture his first match win at the French Grand Slam. 

Above: Ben Shelton. Photo: © On.

Known for his versatile game and strong court sense, Sebastian Korda has shown great promise on all surfaces. His all-around game makes him a top competitor, and he will be looking to make a deep run in the tournament. 

Looking to defend his crown, Austin Krajicek enters the French Open with his eyes set on back-to-back wins. Alongside his partner, Ivan Dodig, the two are looking to win their second Grand Slam together. Earlier this year, the duo reached the Miami Open Finals and is looking to finish the job here in France. 

Playing in her final French Open, Danielle Collins is always a threat in any draw. Earlier this year, she won the Miami Open and is looking to go out on top. Following the first Grand Slam this year, Collins revealed she would retire after the 2024 season, and she has been giving it her all in every tennis match this year.  

Above: Danielle Colllins. Source: Miami Open / Hard Rock Stadium.

The young phenom, Coco Gauff, continues to impress the tennis world with her incredible athleticism. Gauff, who reached the finals back in 2022, is looking to avenge that loss and lift her second Grand Slam trophy of her young career. 

A former French Open finalist and US Open winner, Sloane Stephens has the experience and skill set to excel on the famous clay. Her smooth movement and strategic play will be on full display as she seeks another strong performance at this Grand Slam. 

The 2020 Australian Open champion, Sofia Kenin brings a wealth of Grand Slam experience. She reached the finals of the French Open before and definitely has the skillset and drive to get back there again and lift the trophy.  

Above: Sofia Kenin. Photo: si.robi - Kenin RG21 (40), CC BY-SA 2.0.

Entering the main draw off the Wildcard Challenge is Florida’s own, Sachia Vickery. She earned her spot in the main draw after accumulating the most points in the series and is eager to make some noise. She is looking for her first win at the French Open, in her third appearance. 

After taking a break during the 2023 season and missing a handful of Grand Slams, including the French Open, Amanda Anisimova is back and ready to win. Anisimova is no stranger to success at Roland Garros, having reached the semifinals in 2019 she aims to replicate that success this year. 

Finally, Nicole Melichar-Martinez, the doubles specialist, is a force to be reckoned with on the court. Last year, she reached the semifinals with Ellen Perez, the duo enters this year as one of the top seeds and is looking to do even better this time around. 

USTA Florida’s representation at the 2024 French Open is a testament to the depth of talent that the Sunshine State brings. As the main draw unfolds, make sure to check out USTA Florida on Instagram and the News page to stay updated on all the athletes.  

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Written by: Jaret Kappelman, Marketing & Communications Coordinator for USTA Florida. Be sure to check out USTA Florida, the governing body of amateur tennis in Florida, offering tennis programs for all ages and ability levels. Top photo: New Balance.