James savours historic US Open run - Tennis Jamaica boss proud of junior programme in the wake of quarterfinal-round showing

Jamaican teenager Alyssa James has described her run to the US Open Junior Girls’ Doubles quarterfinals as an “amazing” experience, one that provided valuable lessons in both singles and doubles competition.

Eighth-seeded James and her Ukrainian partner, Polina Skliar, saw their campaign end in the quarterfinals, where they were beaten 6-4, 6-4 by American twins Annika and Kristina Penickova. The defeat brought the curtain down on James’ junior career as she prepares to transition to the professional ranks.

“Reaching the quarterfinals of the US Open in doubles was an amazing feeling, and it was an amazing experience. I want to thank my partner, Polina, for playing with me,” James told The Gleaner last night.

“We had a tough match today (Thursday), and we were hoping to dig it out, but it didn’t go our way. But overall, it was a very positive experience. I definitely learned a lot, both in singles and in doubles,” she added.

‘Impressive’ performance

James’ performance has impressed Tennis Jamaica president John Azar, who said her achievement highlights the country’s continued progress in the sport.

“What she’s done on the world stage is impressive,” Azar told The Gleaner from New York.

“I was fortunate enough to watch her earlier this year at Wimbledon, and now to reach a quarterfinal in the doubles at the US Open is certainly no easy feat,” Azar said.

“She won a couple of tough rounds, lost a close match today, but sometimes we learn more from our losses than even our victories. I’m sure she’ll come back stronger, sure she’ll come back wiser, and definitely, we’re looking forward to the impact that she’ll have on the game on the world stage in the years ahead.”

Looking ahead, James said she is excited about the next phase of her career, both on and off the court, as she prepares to begin studies at the University of Virginia.

“I’m looking forward to the future and what’s in store for me, and excited to get out and play on the pro tour, as the US Open was my last junior tournament,” she said.

“And starting college at the University of Virginia has been very exciting, so I look forward to going back there and working hard … and I’m excited for what the future has to offer.”

Azar said James’ performances at the US Open, following a standout showing at Wimbledon earlier this year, reflects the strides being made by Jamaica’s junior tennis programme.