Sometimes players discover their passion lies beyond the baseline. The former US Open champion Sloane Stephens has found renewed energy behind the microphone. Currently serving as a broadcaster at the US Open, the American is experiencing a career renaissance in the commentary booth that’s giving her fresh eyes on the sport she’s played at the highest level.
Stephens’ pivot to broadcasting comes during a challenging period on court. The 32-year-old hasn’t recorded a singles win since Wimbledon 2024 and has battled through most of the 2024-25 season with a foot injury. However, this unexpected chapter away from competition is rebuilding her confidence in ways she never anticipated.
How Has Commentary Changed Sloane Stephens’ Understanding of Tennis?
Her broadcasting journey began on Tennis Channel last year, where she joined seasoned analysts Tracy Austin and Paul Annacone. The experience opened doors to bigger opportunities, leading to her expanded role with TNT Sports at the 2025 French Open alongside tennis legends Andre Agassi and Venus Williams.
With her passion for commentary growing, Stephens brought her talents to the US Open as she joined ESPN for the tournament. The role has completely reshaped how she sees tennis unfold. During an Instagram Q&A, she revealed that analyzing matches in real time for viewers offered insights she often missed while focused on her own preparation and routines as a competitor.
“Honestly commentary has given me a whole new lens on tennis. as a player, you’re so locked into your own preparation, routines, and emotions that you don’t always step back and see the broader story unfolding. sitting in the booth, I’ve had to analyze matches in real time, explain strategy, and highlight things for fans that I might take for granted as a competitor,” she said.
For Stephens, commentary has unlocked deeper insights into the sport. She’s discovered a new appreciation for mental battles, momentum swings, body language reads, and tactical adjustments that can shift entire matches. Most importantly, she’s committed to bringing authenticity and respect to every broadcast.
“It’s made me appreciate the mental side of the game even more, how small momentum shifts, body language, or tactical adjustments can completely change a match. I’ve also realized how much nuance there is in telling the story of a match, not just what’s happening technically but what it means in the bigger arc of a player’s career.
She added, ” I try to bring honesty, insight, and respect to every match I call and every desk I sit on. ”
Stephens built her legacy through memorable moments on court. Her breakthrough semifinal run at the 2013 Australian Open launched her into tennis prominence, followed by her stunning 2017 US Open triumph and runner-up finish at the 2018 French Open. These achievements paved her way to a career-high No. 3 ranking.
MORE: Amid Years of Tennis Struggles, Sloane Stephens Rediscovers Her Spark in Another Job Away From the Court
When Is Stephens Planning Her Return to Competition?
Despite being fully immersed in broadcasting at the tournament she once conquered, Stephens isn’t stepping away from competition permanently. During her Instagram Q&A, she revealed her plans for a return to action in Guadalajara, where she’s been preparing by hitting on the US Open courts during early morning sessions before her commentary duties begin.
“Yes I’ve been hitting every morning before work. Most days from 7-9am,” she replied.
Stephens has maintained an open dialogue with fans throughout her journey, consistently sharing insights into her struggles and discoveries. Her recent revelations showcase a player who’s found focus and positivity regardless of whether she’s calling matches or competing in them.
With her return to competition approaching, the tennis world will watch to see if her new perspective from the broadcast booth can help her recapture the form that once made her a Grand Slam champion.