Sloane Stephens: Back in Top Form & Eyeing US Open Wildcard

Sloane Stephens, the 2017 US Open champion, has made a significant return to form at the 2026 Cincinnati Open. She recently defeated WTA World No. 25 Anastasia Potapova, marking a major win after a year-long injury layoff. Stephens, who spent time broadcasting tennis during her recovery, is now healthy and showcasing her best play in years.

Her current performance is timely as the US Open is considering wildcard entries, potentially including Stephens. She is set to face Marta Kostyuk, ranked 11th, in her next match on Tuesday, August 18. Stephens' current ranking is World No. 207, a jump of 65 spots due to her Cincinnati success. Fans are eager to see more of the 33-year-old, especially given her past success, including a career-high ranking of World No. 3 in July 2018.