The final round of US Open qualifying promises thrilling matchups as players vie for a coveted spot in the main draw. Among the most anticipated is the clash between Japan’s Aoi Ito and Indonesia’s Janice Tjen. Both players have shown impressive form this summer, setting the stage for an exciting encounter. Meanwhile, rising stars Tereza Valentova and Emerson Jones have also advanced, adding to the excitement in the qualifying rounds.
This article delves into the key storylines from the US Open qualifying rounds, focusing on Tjen’s quest to make history and the performances of other notable players. We’ll explore the contrasting styles of Ito and Tjen, examine Valentova and Jones’s victories, and provide a comprehensive overview of the final qualifying matchups.
Tjen and Ito Set for US Open Qualifying Showdown
A captivating all-Asian battle is on the horizon as Aoi Ito and Janice Tjen prepare to face off in the final round of US Open qualifying. Ito, known for her unconventional style and recent upsets over top players like Jasmine Paolini and Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, secured her spot with a hard-fought victory over Spain’s Guiomar Maristany Zuleta De Reales. Tjen, a recent Pepperdine University graduate, continued her impressive run, notching her 99th match win since May with a resilient performance against Poland’s Maja Chwalinska.
Their upcoming match marks their first-ever encounter, adding an element of unpredictability to the contest. Ito’s game revolves around a strong backhand and an array of slices and high balls on the forehand wing, while Tjen boasts a formidable forehand and a precise backhand slice, reminiscent of Ashleigh Barty. Both players are also adept at the net, promising a dynamic and engaging match.
For Tjen, this match represents more than just a chance to qualify for a Grand Slam. The 23-year-old is aiming to become the first Indonesian player to compete in a Grand Slam main draw since Angelique Widjaja at the 2004 US Open, adding a layer of historical significance to her quest.
Valentova and Jones Advance to Final Qualifying Round
Teenage sensations Tereza Valentova and Emerson Jones have also made their way into the final round of US Open qualifying. Valentova, the No. 2 seed, overcame a slow start against Tatiana Prozorova to secure a dominant victory, while Jones battled through a tough match against Laura Pigossi to advance.
Valentova, 18, demonstrated her resilience and talent, recovering from a first-set deficit to win convincingly. Jones, 17, displayed composure and determination in her win, setting up a final-round clash with another former junior No. 1, Victoria Jimenez Kasintseva.
Other Notable Qualifying Matches
The US Open qualifying rounds have been filled with drama and excitement, with several players overcoming adversity to reach the final stage. Francesca Jones, the British No. 1 seed, survived a remarkable second-set tiebreak to defeat Ekaterine Gorgodze, while Hanne Vandewinkel saved match points to upset No. 5 seed Viktoriya Tomova. Dominika Salkova also fought off match points to secure a hard-fought victory over Kristina Dmitruk.
Veronika Erjavec continued her impressive Grand Slam form, advancing to the final qualifying round with a win over Cadence Brace. Erjavec has a stellar record at Grand Slams in 2025, highlighting her ability to perform on the biggest stages.
US Open Qualifying Final Round Draw
The final qualifying round of the US Open is set, with a series of intriguing matches on the schedule:
- [1] Francesca Jones (GBR) vs. Arianne Hartono (NED)
- [2] Tereza Valentova (CZE) vs. [18] Arantxa Rus (NED)
- [3] Aoi Ito (JPN) vs. Janice Tjen (INA)
- [4] Dalma Galfi (HUN) vs. [29] Panna Udvardy (HUN)
- Hanne Vandewinkel (BEL) vs. [27] Priscilla Hon (AUS)
- [6] Varvara Gracheva (FRA) vs. [20] Ena Shibahara (JPN)
- [7] Katie Volynets (USA) vs. Jana Fett (CRO)
- Destanee Aiava (AUS) vs. [21] Ella Seidel (GER)
- [9] Zhang Shuai (CHN) vs. Wei Sijia (CHN)
- Emerson Jones (AUS) vs. [28] Victoria Jimenez Kasintseva (AND)
- Alina Charaeva vs. [31] Wang Xiyu (CHN)
- [12] Darja Semenistaja (LAT) vs. Linda Klimovicova (POL)
- [WC] Ayana Akli (USA) vs. Oksana Selekhmeteva
- Dominika Salkova (CZE) vs. [17] Rebecca Marino (CAN)
- Lucrezia Stefanini (ITA) vs. Hina Inoue (USA)
- [SR] Claire Liu (USA) vs. [32] Veronika Erjavec (SLO)
Conclusion
The US Open qualifying rounds have provided a glimpse into the future of women’s tennis, with rising stars like Janice Tjen, Tereza Valentova, and Emerson Jones making their mark. Tjen’s quest to become the first Indonesian player in a Grand Slam main draw since 2004 adds an extra layer of intrigue to her upcoming match against Aoi Ito. With thrilling matches and compelling storylines, the final qualifying round promises to be a captivating prelude to the main event at the US Open.
As these players battle for a spot on the biggest stage, their performances offer a glimpse into the passion, dedication, and talent that drive professional tennis. Keep an eye on these names as they continue their journey towards Grand Slam glory.
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