Memphis is getting professional women’s tennis this summer. And the first big name on the board is a former US Open champion.
Sloane Stephens has accepted a wildcard entry into the Memphis Classic, the new WTA event coming to Leftwich Tennis Center from July 25 through August 2.
“Memphis, I’m excited to see you guys this summer,” Stephens said in a video announcement. “I’m especially excited to bring women’s tennis back to the city of Memphis. I’m looking forward to it and can’t wait to see you there.”
Why It Matters
This is the kind of signing that tells you a new event is real. Stephens isn’t just a recognizable name. She’s one of the defining American tennis players of the last decade. She made the French Open semifinals in 2013, and in 2017 she won the US Open, becoming the first American woman other than the Williams sisters to win a Grand Slam since Jennifer Capriati in 2002.
At 33, Stephens is working her way back from a foot injury. She earned her spot in the 2026 French Open main draw by winning three qualifying matches, and she recently added a new role as a television commentator on TNT’s French Open coverage, alongside exhibition participants John Isner and Sam Querrey. Stephens actually played in Memphis once before, back in 2012. This time, the city is rolling out something worth returning to.
Get Your Tickets
Championship week packages and exhibition tickets are available now at memphisclassic.com.
Full story via the Daily Memphian.
