Stephens showing signs of a return to form according to Roddick: "Here we go, this could be the start of a little Sloane run here"
WTA
Former
world No. 1 Andy Roddick praised Sloane Stephens for her performances during
the clay court season.
The
American tennis player is known for commenting on the current state of tennis,
and this time he showed that he is also paying attention to what is happening
in the WTA. In an interview with Tennis Channel, he commented on the ups and
downs that Stephens has faced throughout her career:
“Well, it’s
a little bit like a heart rate monitor. There are some peaks and some valleys
tucked in there as well," the former world No. 1 said.
Roddick and
Stephens have something in common, as they have both won a Grand Slam in their
careers, both in their home country, winning the US Open. Roddick praised
Stephens' recent weeks on the tour:
"But
I’ll tell you one thing. People on tour, they see her starting to win matches.
Not all Challenger winners are the same, right? You could see someone win a
Challenger and think, ‘Okay, that’s great.’ Sloane Stephens wins a Challenger
and you’re thinking, ‘Here we go, this could be the start of a little Sloane
run here,'" Roddick said.
"I’m
sure she would tell you that the delta between her great stuff and her bad
stuff is probably as significant as anyone else on the WTA tour, but I like
what I’m seeing. You win a Challenger, you come back, and you ease through the
first round. She’s rolling into form at the right time," he added.
Stephens
won her first match at the Rome Open against Nadia Podoroska but lost in the
second round to Victoria Azarenka. The American is continuing her preparation
for the French Open, where she was already a finalist in 2018, losing to Simona
Halep.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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