After a strong performance throughout the clay season and impressive showings at Grand Slams, expectations were high for American players entering the 2025 French Open.
However, few anticipated the remarkable success of the U.S. contenders in Paris. On Saturday, following an intense three-set match where 2025 Australian Open champion Madison Keys narrowly defeated fellow American Sofia Kenin, a total of eight Americans qualified for the second week at Roland Garros.
This marks the highest number of Americans in the round of 16 in four decades. Among the remaining players, there are five women and three men, a historic achievement for the men, as the last time this many made it to this stage was in 1995. The significance of this moment is not lost on the athletes competing this week.
“Everyone is really excited,” said Ben Shelton on Friday. “This tournament has not traditionally been our strong suit, and it means a lot to gain respect with a good performance here.”
Frances Tiafoe, who also triumphed on Friday, added, “Everyone is hungry and just believes in themselves; that’s what it comes down to.”
No American has secured the French Open singles title since Serena Williams in 2015, with Andre Agassi as the last man to do so in 1999. Will any of the current players break that streak next week?
Here’s a look at the remaining American players and their paths to this stage.
Coco Gauff
Gauff, a pre-tournament favorite, advanced after beating Marie Bouzkova 6-1, 7-6 (3). Despite some vulnerability in the second set, she showcased her resilience, coming from a 3-5 deficit to secure the match.
Jessica Pegula
Pegula, who recently won a title on green clay and showed great form in her opening rounds, takes on Lois Boisson, a surprising wild card making her major main draw debut.
Madison Keys
Keys has had a spectacular season, winning the Australian Open in January. She faces Hailey Baptiste, who has had a breakout tournament and previously upset Beatriz Haddad Maia.
Frances Tiafoe
Tiafoe is aiming to reach his first quarterfinal at Roland Garros, facing Daniel Altmaier. Having not lost a set yet, he is looking to leverage his strong form on clay.
Ben Shelton
After defeating Matteo Gigante, Shelton prepares to take on defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in a challenging match that could see him rise to a career-high ranking.
