Sometimes, players will find their passion outside of the baseline. The former U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens discovered the renewed energy behind the microphone. The U.S. is currently working as a broadcaster at the U.S. Open, and the U.S. is experiencing a career renaissance at the comment booth, which has brought her to the forefront of her sports at the highest level.
Stephens’ hub for broadcasting was a challenging time in court. The 32-year-old hasn't recorded a singles title since Wimbledon in 2024 and has fought for foot injuries for most of the 2024-25 season. But the unexpected chapter of staying away from competition is to rebuild her confidence in a way she never thought of.
How did the comments change Sloan Stephens’ understanding of tennis?
Her radio journey began last year’s Tennis Channel, where she joined experienced analysts Tracy Austin and Paul Annacone. This experience opens the door to a greater opportunity to expand its role at TNT Sports with tennis legends Andre Agassi and Venus Williams at the 2025 French Open.
Stephens’ passion for comments brought his talent to the U.S. Open (ESPN) tournament. The character completely reshapes the way she sees tennis unfold. In Instagram Q&A, she revealed that she provided the audience with insights she often missed while focusing on her preparations and routines as a competitor to analyze the competition in real time.
“Honestly, the comments gave me a brand new tennis shot. As a player, you're locked in your preparations, routines and emotions, you don't always take a step back and see a broader story. Sitting in the booth, I had to analyze the game in real time, I had to explain the strategy in real time, and for the sake of my competitors, I might emphasize strategy for my competitors,” she said. ”
For Stephens, the comments have unravelled deeper insights into the sport. She found a new appreciation for mental warfare, dynamic fluctuations, body language readings and tactical adjustments that could transform the entire game. Most importantly, she is committed to bringing authenticity and respect to every broadcast.
“This makes me more appreciate the psychological aspect of the game, how the change in momentum, body language or tactical adjustments completely change the game. I also realize how troublesome it is to tell a game story, not just what is technically happening, but what it means in the larger arc of a player’s career.
She added: “I tried to bring honesty, insight and respect to every game I called and every table I sat on.”
Stephens built her legacy through memorable moments in court. Her breakthrough semifinal at the 2013 Australian Open made her a standout performance in tennis, followed by her amazing 2017 US Open victory and runner-up at the 2017 French Open. These achievements pave the top rankings of their careers.
More: Sloane Stephens rediscovers her sparks during years of tennis struggles
When will Stephens plan to return to the game?
Despite her game conquering her, Stephens did not permanently leave the game. During the Instagram Q&A, she revealed her plans for her return to action in Guadalajara, where she had been encountering comment duties in the early morning in the U.S. open court in preparation for the U.S. open court.
She replied, “Yes, I call before work every morning.
Stephens has been in open conversations with fans throughout the journey and consistently shares her insights on struggles and discoveries. Her recent revelation shows a player who discovers focus and motivation, whether she is on the phone or in the game.
As she returns to the game, the tennis world will observe whether the new perspectives of her radio booth can help her regain the form that once made her a Grand Slam champion.