“Sloane Stephens played in a Grand Slam qualifier for the first time since 2011”, — write: sport.ua
In the qualification of the Australian major, the experienced American, who became the US Open champion in 2017, defeated Barbora Palitsova (Czech Republic, WTA 230), Olivia Gadecki (Australia, WTA 171) and Lucia Bronzetti (Italy, WTA 106).
In March 2025, Sloan suffered a foot injury and was out of action on Tour until September, after which she lost three consecutive matches before the Australian Open qualifier.
For the first time since 2011, Stephens played in the qualification of the Grand Slam tournament. Then she failed to qualify for the main draw of Wimbledon.
In the 1/64 finals of the Australian Open, Stephens will play against Karolina Pliskova (Czech Republic, WTA 1052), who has not played at the pro level since last October.
Sloan will play in the main draw of the Australian Open for the 14th time in his career. Her best result is the semi-final in 2013.
Sloane Stephens Australian Open 2026 Qualifying Results:
Video review of the match between Sloan Stevens and Barbora Palitsova
Video review of the match Sloane Stephens – Olivia Hadecki
Video review of the Sloane Stephens – Lucia Bronzetti match