James savours historic US Open run - Tennis Jamaica boss proud of junior programme in the wake of quarterfinal-round showing

Jamaican teenager Alyssa James has described her run to the US Open Junior Girls’ Doubles quarterfinals as an “amazing” experience, one that provided valuable lessons in both singles and doubles competition.

Eighth-seeded James and her Ukrainian partner, Polina Skliar, saw their campaign end in the quarterfinals, where they were beaten 6-4, 6-4 by American twins Annika and Kristina Penickova. The defeat brought the curtain down on James’ junior career as she prepares to transition to the professional ranks.

“Reaching the quarterfinals of the US Open in doubles was an amazing feeling, and it was an amazing experience. I want to thank my partner, Polina, for playing with me,” James told The Gleaner last night.