Teenager Frodin hopes to meet idol Serena after US Open debut

New York, USA - On her US Open debut, 17-year-old Thea Frodin hoped to meet tennis legend Serena Williams, though that dream remains unfulfilled. Frodin lost her first-round match against world number two Elena Rybakina 6-1, 6-1, at Arthur Ashe Stadium. A wildcard entrant through her victory in the USTA Girls 18s National Championships, Frodin found the experience valuable for her career, though struggled to maintain an aggressive playing style.

Despite the attention her connection to Serena garnered, Frodin said she was learning to accept the spotlight without letting it affect her performance. Actor Will Smith reposted one of Frodin's social media posts before her match, something she appreciated. Frodin plans to play in the girls US Open next week while finishing high school before deciding on her future in tennis.