Emerging talent Thea Frodin is set to make her much-anticipated debut at the US Open, reflecting the legacy of tennis icon Serena Williams as she steps into the competition on Tuesday, September 1. At just 17 years old, Frodin has already made a name for herself, having recently claimed victory at the USTA Girls’ 18s National Championships in San Diego.
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Frodin is no stranger to the spotlight. She gained recognition for her role as Serena Williams’ body double in the acclaimed 2021 film *King Richard*, which chronicles the inspiring journey of Serena and her sister, Venus Williams, towards becoming tennis superstars. As fate would have it, Williams is also competing at this year’s tournament, marking a poignant moment of connection between the two.
The young Californian, who hails from Woodland Hills, will face Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina in her debut match, providing her with the opportunity to showcase her skills on a world stage in front of millions of viewers. Frodin expressed her excitement, stating, “I’ve only dreamed of moments like this. The fact that I’m here right now and able to experience it in real life is still a little bit shocking to me. To be standing here and actually getting a chance to play in the main draw means everything.”
Frodin’s journey into the world of tennis and acting began at the tender age of 12 when she was cast as Williams’ body double for *King Richard*. The film features Hollywood star Will Smith in an Oscar-winning portrayal of the sisters’ father, Richard Williams, while Demi Singleton plays Serena. Frodin’s casting came shortly after her triumph in multiple tennis categories at a California sectional tournament, signalling her dual talent in both sport and performance.
Recalling her experience on set, Frodin shared, “I just remember it being a blast. Being able to play tennis and be on camera was two great combos. I had such an amazing time. It helps that I was kind of playing a sport I’ve done my whole life, so it didn’t feel too new.”
Her portrayal of Serena held significant sentimental value for Frodin. “Being able to play the role of somebody I looked up to for my whole life was super special. I was honoured. She was one of the players I looked up to most when I was starting out, and she’s such an inspiration to me,” she remarked.
In another interesting development, both Serena and Venus Williams are also participating in this year’s US Open, having entered the women’s doubles tournament as wildcards. The sisters previously claimed titles at the US Open in 1999 and 2009, totalling an impressive 12 Grand Slam doubles titles throughout their careers. Their last competition together occurred at the Cincinnati Open on August 17, marking a significant return to the court after a break since 2022.
Frodin, despite her interactions at the film set, has yet to meet the real-life Williams sisters. She expressed a desire to connect with them during the US Open, stating, “Hopefully, if I get a chance to hit with them or just meet them, anything, I’ll take it. That would be incredible. That would be a dream.”
As the excitement builds around both her debut and the overarching legacy of the Williams sisters, Frodin’s entry into the tournament not only highlights her burgeoning career but also adds a compelling narrative to this year’s US Open. The tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent and a celebration of sporting legacies, as Frodin embarks on her journey in the world of professional tennis.