Thea Frodin’s tennis career has taken some surprising twists and turns. The American tennis player's name became known in the world of competitive tennis, not because of her accomplishments on the court but as a result of an acting job.

A recent X post by US Open Tennis explored her journey, showing Frodin walking into the court as she prepared to face off against Kazakhstani tennis star and World No. 2 in women’s singles, Elena Rybakina.

Although she lost her first-round match at the US Open with a score of 6-3, 6-2, the 17-year old impressed the tennis community by hitting 11 aces against Rybakina.

“At age 12, Thea Frodin portrayed a young Serena Williams on screen in the 2021 film ‘King Richard’. Today, she faces Elena Rybakina at the US Open,” US Open Tennis’s X post read.

According to WTA Tennis, Frodin earned a wildcard to the 2026 US Open after winning the USTA Billie Jean King Girls' 18s National Championships in San Diego in August.

Back in 2021, Frodin earned a similarly golden opportunity. Upon seeing her performance at a 10-and-under sectional tennis tournament in California, producers of the film, 'King Richard,' asked the 12-year-old to audition for the role of a body double for Demi Singleton, who played the role of a young Serena Williams.

"I just remember it being a blast," said Frodin about the experience, per WTA Tennis. "Being able to play tennis and be on camera, two great combos. I truly had such an amazing time. I got to be alongside some really cool actors, and it was super fun." 

Frodin, who holds a WTA singles ranking of No. 580 and a doubles ranking of No. 710, even continued to use some of Williams’ signature backhanded stroke while playing. She had to consciously unlearn that technique to use her natural style again.

The 17-year-old reached the finals of the girls' doubles at the 2025 Wimbledon (Juniors) and the semifinals of the 2026 Australian Open (Juniors). 

What did Thea Frodin’s US Open experience look like?

Thea Frodin’s US Open debut began with a loss, but still became a moment that foretells a shining career. According to an Associated Press report published on September 1, the young prodigy admitted that it was daunting to enter the court, especially since she was often subjected to more scrutiny than other players of her age and caliber.

“I mean, I think it’s hard to get away from all of that. It’s kind of just about accepting it and not letting it get to you,” Frodin said, per Fox 8. “I feel like I did a good job of that.” 

Elena Rybakina too was impressed by her young opponent’s performance, as Frodin hit 11 aces during the first-round match. 

“I think that she [Frodin] has great shots, and especially serve,” Rybakina told reporters after the match, per Associated Press. “She has this powerful game, which is I think great and it’s just a matter of experience, be more stable, playing matches. But she has the game. She can be quite dangerous with these kind of shots.” 

When asked about her serves, Frodin agreed with Rybakina’s assessment of her playing style.

“I feel I have always been an aggressive player. That’s always been kind of my game, just to be aggressive,” she added. “Obviously my height gives me the chance to serve bigger.” 

Frodin’s US Open will likely make her privy to even more attention. But seeing how she handled the pressure, she seems well-equipped to deal with it. It might not be too long before she returns to the US Open again as a formidable challenger.

Written by

Arundhoti Palit

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit