Another strong spring performer who is hoping to rise at the US Open, Kiki Mladenovic has turned into a Top 15 regular. She’s got the stature, strength and all-court game to defeat any of the other top players, so long as she controls her variety of shots.
Two years ago, Mladenovic reached the US Open quarterfinals, and she’s a much improved player in 2017. If she does meet up with No. 1 Karolina Pliskova in the fourth round, she could get that signature win that boosts her to the final weekend.
Mladenovic also clearly has an affinity for New York.
“Every Slam has its own special thing, but I gotta go with the US Open," she said on media day. "It has a special thing for me in my heart. And also last year was great, reaching the doubles finals, so I love it. I just love the US Open – all the fired-up people, the atmosphere and everything that goes with it.”
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Madison Keys