Tommy Paul’s remarkable performance at the 2024 French Open is part of a historic American run at Roland Garros, as eight US players advance into the tournament’s second week, the highest number in four decades. Paul has reached the quarter-finals, demonstrating the strength of American tennis at this Grand Slam event in Paris.
Americans Make Unprecedented Progress in French Open Second Week
The 28-year-old Tommy Paul, seeded 12th, entered the French Open after a strong showing at the Italian Open, where he reached the semi-finals before falling to world number one Jannik Sinner. Alongside Paul, fellow Americans Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe have also progressed deep into the men’s draw, marking the first time since 1995 that three American men have reached the fourth round at Roland Garros. This elite group follows in the footsteps of Andre Agassi, Jim Courier, and Michael Chang, underscoring a revival in American men’s tennis.
On the women’s side, Coco Gauff, the tournament’s second seed, continues to impress as she prepares for her round-four match against Ekaterina Alexandrova. Gauff is joined by Jessica Pegula, Madison Keys, Amanda Anisimova, and Hailey Baptiste—all advancing to the second week. This collective achievement signals a significant resurgence of American players on the clay courts of Paris, a feat not seen for 40 years.
American Players Holding Their Ground Amid Global Competition
While American players face stiff competition from international stars, their recent results provide cause for optimism. Madison Keys notably claimed the Australian Open title earlier this year, highlighting ongoing success for US women on the WTA Tour. The women’s field remains highly competitive with contenders like Aryna Sabalenka from Belarus, Iga Swiatek of Poland, and Barbora Krejcikova of the Czech Republic securing major titles in 2024.
In men’s tennis, European players continue dominating the Grand Slam scene, with Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz each having won two major titles this year. Sinner recently defended his crown at the 2025 Australian Open, and another European victory at the French Open appears likely. Despite this, the strong American presence at the tournament is rekindling hope that a US man could soon end the long Grand Slam drought that dates back to Andy Roddick’s 2003 US Open win.
Significance of the 2024 French Open American Breakthrough
The combined efforts of Tommy Paul, Coco Gauff, and their fellow American players have revived excitement around US tennis, particularly on clay courts where success has been sporadic. The achievement of having eight Americans reach the second week reflects a promising shift in the sport for the nation. As Paul and others advance further into the tournament, their performances could encourage greater confidence and momentum heading into future Grand Slam events.