Played at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, the tournament once again featured several Laurel Springs alumni and former students competing on one of the biggest stages in professional tennis.
For more than three decades, Laurel Springs has helped student-athletes pursue demanding training and competition schedules while continuing a rigorous education. At this year’s US Open, that tradition was on display throughout both the men’s and women’s draws.
Alex Michelsen, Laurel Springs Class of 2022
Unseeded in New York, Michelsen reached his first Grand Slam quarterfinal without dropping a set through his first four matches, producing one of the breakout performances of the tournament. There, he faced fellow former Laurel Springs student and No. 11 seed Frances Tiafoe. Michelsen jumped out to a commanding two-set lead and even served for the match in the third set before Tiafoe mounted a dramatic comeback. After four hours and 38 minutes, Tiafoe prevailed, winning the deciding match tiebreak 10-6. The run marked a major career milestone for Michelsen, while Tiafoe advanced to his third US Open semifinal.
Former Laurel Springs student Frances Tiafoe
After his dramatic comeback, Tiafoe played against No. 8 seed Ben Shelton in an all-American semifinal, ending Tiafoe’s run in the 2026 US Open.
Taylor Fritz, Laurel Springs Class of 2016
Entering the tournament as the No. 9 seed and advancing to the third round, he faced No. 24 seed Francisco Cerundolo. Fritz took the first two sets before Cerundolo rallied with a comeback victory, ending Fritz’s run in New York.
Former Laurel Springs student Jessica Pegula
No. 3 seed Jessica Pegula put together another deep run at her home Grand Slam. Pegula rallied from a set down to defeat fellow American Emma Navarro in the quarterfinals, reaching the US Open semifinals for the third consecutive year. Her run ended in the semi-finals against world No. 1 and two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka, who defeated Pegula after her impressive stretch at Flushing Meadows.
Amanda Anisimova, Laurel Springs Class of 2020
After impressively advancing to the third round, she eventually fell to No. 24 seed Anastasia Potapova.
Alexandra Eala, Laurel Springs Class of 2023
No. 17 seed, Eala also reached the third round. In one of the most entertaining matches of the tournament’s first week, Eala battled No. 14 seed Iva Jovic in a three-set thriller inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. Jovic ultimately edged Eala in a matchup between two of the sport’s rising young stars.
Watching Laurel Springs alumni and former students compete at the highest levels of professional tennis is always a source of pride for our community. Their accomplishments at this year’s US Open reflect the commitment, discipline and resilience required to succeed both academically and athletically. We’re proud to have been part of their journeys and look forward to seeing where their careers take them next.
Want to learn more?
Student athletes have thrived at Laurel Springs for more than 35 years, and if you’re interested in exploring options, we’re here to help! Head to our website to request additional information, browse student athlete stories, and attend a Virtual Open House to meet staff, faculty, and alumni.
