NCAA champion Alexa Noel is set to make her professional tennis debut at the U.S. Open next week, marking a significant milestone in her career. The 21-year-old American’s journey to this moment began when she first visited Flushing Meadows at the age of 11 for a U.S. Tennis Association camp, where she felt inspired to one day compete on the prestigious courts. Noel secured her place in the U.S. Open singles bracket by winning a title for the University of Miami in May, shortly after graduating with a degree in sociology. She has decided to forgo her final year of NCAA eligibility to turn professional, with her first opponent to be determined in Thursday’s draw.
With a background that includes reaching the Wimbledon junior final at 16, Noel aspires to follow in the footsteps of other successful athletes who transitioned from college tennis to the professional tour. Notable examples include recent NCAA champions who have achieved significant success on the pro circuit, such as Danielle Collins, Emma Navarro, and Ben Shelton. Reflecting on the benefits of competing at the collegiate level, Noel highlighted the importance of personal growth, maturity, and physical development before making the leap to the professional ranks.
In terms of earnings, Noel is guaranteed a minimum of $100,000 from the U.S. Open, which she acknowledges will provide crucial support at this stage of her career. Returning to her roots on the East Coast, having grown up in New Jersey, Noel anticipates a strong support network of family, friends, and fans in the stands cheering her on during the tournament. Securing a wild-card entry from the USTA further fueled excitement among her supporters, leading to an influx of ticket requests as she prepares for her debut on the big stage.
Describing herself as a “passionate” player, Noel emphasizes her intense commitment and emotional investment in every match, striving to channel her energy effectively on the court. Coach Lorenzo Cava attests to Noel’s well-rounded skill set and strategic mindset, recognizing her potential to elevate her game and climb the rankings. Drawing on past experiences, including a stirring junior singles match at the U.S. Open and a wild-card appearance in doubles, Noel approaches her upcoming debut with a mix of excitement and determination to create more lasting memories on this grand stage.