From playing Serena Williams on screen to following in her footsteps

Thea Frodin, a 17-year-old tennis player, has transitioned from playing the role of Serena Williams in a film to potentially following in her footsteps at the US Open. In 2018, Frodin was chosen as a tennis-playing body double for the actress portraying her childhood idol in the Oscar-nominated movie King Richard. At the time, Frodin was just 12 years old. She worked alongside actor Will Smith as he portrayed Richard Williams, the father of Serena and Venus Williams, for several days a week over six months during filming.

Frodin expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play a role she admired for her entire life. She was honored to portray someone she looked up to most. Now, Frodin will make her main-draw singles debut at the US Open, her home Grand Slam tournament, where Serena and Venus Williams will participate in the doubles. Her draw against world number two Elena Rybakina adds to the significance of this occasion.

Frodin, currently ranked 580th in the world, worked closely with Oscar-winning star Will Smith on set. She fondly remembers his attentiveness to her needs, such as bringing hot water on cold, rainy days. As she transitioned from the role of Serena Williams, her coaches helped her rediscover her natural playing style. Frodin earned a wildcard into this year's US Open women's singles competition, following her victory in the USTA Girls 18s National Championships.

The 17-year-old has already reached the semi-finals of the Australian Open girls' singles, her best result as a junior at a major. She also participated in the WTA Tour qualifying draw, pushing former world number 35 Viktorija Golubic in a three-set loss. However, on Tuesday, she will face her biggest challenge yet as she enters the main draw at the US Open.