From Stunt Double to US Open Star: Frodin's Rise

Thea Frodin, a 17-year-old American, is poised to make her debut in a Grand Slam main draw at the US Open. Her first-round opponent will be the formidable No. 2 seed Elena Rybakina, presenting a significant challenge for the young player.

Five years ago, Frodin, then just 12, gained a unique perspective on tennis stardom by working as the junior stunt and body double for Serena Williams in the 2021 film "King Richard." This experience provided her with a glimpse into the life of a tennis icon.

Frodin earned her place in the US Open draw not through any past association, but by winning the USTA Billie Jean King Girls' 18s National Championships. Her current world ranking is No. 580, but she has shown promise in junior events, reaching semifinals at the Australian Open and finals at Wimbledon.

Despite her impressive junior career, Frodin's path to the US Open main draw also includes recent success on the professional circuit. She reached her first professional final in Arcadia, California, in February and made her WTA qualifying debut in Miami. She has achieved an 18-10 singles record this season, climbing over 400 ranking positions since the end of 2025.

Rybakina enters the match as the heavy favorite, boasting a powerful serve and numerous accolades, including the 2026 Australian Open title. However, Rybakina has been dealing with an ankle injury, which led to her withdrawal from a recent Cincinnati quarterfinal and the US Open mixed doubles. While she expects to play, her condition remains a point of observation.

The contrast between the two players is stark: a wild card making her tour-level debut against the world's second-ranked player. Yet, the setting at Flushing Meadows is particularly fitting, as Serena Williams herself is also competing in the women's doubles alongside Venus Williams, adding a layer of narrative resonance to Frodin's own burgeoning career.