The US Open has a knack for delivering incredible stories, and this year, the spotlight is firmly on Janice Tjen. This 23-year-old Indonesian tennis player, who was unranked just over a year ago, has burst onto the Grand Slam scene with a bang, defeating former Top 10 player Veronika Kudermetova in the first round. This victory isn’t just a personal triumph; it marks Indonesia’s first main draw win at a Major in 22 years, making it a truly historic moment for her country. [1, 3]
Tjen’s journey to Flushing Meadows is a testament to her dedication and rapid progression. After a successful collegiate career in the NCAA, first at the University of Oregon and then at Pepperdine, she decided to turn professional. In just 15 months, she has amassed an astonishing record of 100 wins in 113 matches on the ITF World Tennis Tour, securing 13 individual titles. This incredible run propelled her from having no ranking at the beginning of 2024 to being among the top 150 players in the world. [1, 2]
Her path through the US Open qualifiers was equally impressive, with dominant wins over Varvara Lepchenko, Maja Chwalinska, and Aoi Ito. But it was her main draw debut against the 25th-seeded Kudermetova that truly turned heads. Tjen’s 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 victory over the two-time WTA Tour title winner and 2022 US Open octavofinalist showcased her unique and effective playing style. [1, 2, 3]
What makes Tjen’s game so captivating is its “counter-cultural” approach. In an era dominated by powerful hitters, she employs a diverse arsenal of shots: net approaches, drop shots, slices, and variations in height and speed. This technical versatility allows her to disrupt her opponents’ rhythm and create opportunities. She even draws comparisons to the retired Australian star Ashleigh Barty, with Tjen herself admitting to studying Barty’s matches to learn from her game. [2]
Interestingly, Tjen initially had doubts about pursuing a professional tennis career, considering a path in sociology after her university studies. However, her coaches convinced her to give it a try for at least two years, and it’s safe to say that decision has paid off handsomely. Her parents’ support throughout her development has also been a crucial factor in her success. [2]
As Janice Tjen prepares for her second-round match against Emma Raducanu, another former US Open champion with a remarkable underdog story, the tennis world will be watching. Tjen herself acknowledges Raducanu’s inspiring 2021 run, feeling a connection to her journey. With her incredible talent, unique style, and compelling backstory, Janice Tjen is not just a rising star; she’s a beacon of hope for Indonesian tennis and a true Cinderella story unfolding at the US Open. [2, 3]
References
[1] https://espndeportes.espn.com/tenis/nota/_/id/15587391/no-tenia-ranking-le-gano-a-ex-top-10-en-us-open-obtuvo-la-victoria-mas-importante-de-su-pais-20-anos-janice-tjen-indonesia
[2] https://www.puntodebreak.com/2025/08/25/asi-increible-historia-janice-tjen-gente-dice-tenis-parece-barty
[3] https://www.mundodeportivo.com/tenis/open-usa/20250824/1002519838/sorpreson-us-open-primer-partido-grand-slam.html