PARIS — Harmony Tan, the unheralded French tennis player who famously ended Serena Williams' storied career at the 2022 French Open, has unleashed a furious response after being overlooked for a wildcard entry into this year's tournament. The snub comes just two years after Tan delivered one of the biggest upsets in tennis history by defeating the 23-time Grand Slam champion in a grueling three-hour first-round match at Roland Garros.
The French Tennis Federation (FFT) announced its wildcard selections on Monday, bypassing the 26-year-old Tan in favor of younger prospects. This decision has sparked outrage from Tan and her supporters, who argue that her historic victory over Williams—which ultimately marked the American legend's final Grand Slam appearance—should have warranted special consideration. "I gave Roland Garros one of its most memorable moments," Tan told L'Équipe. "And this is how they repay me?"
The Match That Shook Tennis
On May 30, 2022, Tan, then ranked No. 115 in the world, faced Williams in what would become an instant classic. The match stretched to a third-set tiebreak, with Tan prevailing 7-5, 1-6, 7-6(10-7). Williams, who had just returned from a year-long injury hiatus, struggled with her movement but fought valiantly before succumbing to Tan's crafty slice backhands and relentless defense. The loss prompted Williams to hint at retirement, which she confirmed months later after the US Open.
Tan's victory was more than just an upset—it was a symbolic passing of the torch. "That match changed everything for me," Tan reflected. "I proved I could compete with the greatest. But now, it feels like the FFT has forgotten what I did for French tennis."
Wildcard Controversy
The FFT awarded its wildcards to four French players: 18-year-old sensation Luca Van Assche, veteran Alizé Cornet (who is retiring after this tournament), and rising juniors Diane Parry and Arthur Fils. Tan, currently ranked No. 142, was left off the list despite her Roland Garros heroics and a recent semifinal run at a WTA 125 event in Saint-Malo.
Key reasons cited by insiders for the snub include:
- Tan's inconsistent form since 2022, with early exits in most tournaments
- The FFT's preference for developing younger talent
- Political tensions within French tennis circles
Tan's coach, Nathalie Tauziat, a former Wimbledon finalist, blasted the decision: "This is disrespectful to Harmony's legacy. She beat Serena Williams on that court! How many of these wildcard recipients have done anything close to that?"
Williams' Retirement Echoes
The controversy has reignited discussions about Williams' emotional farewell. After the 2022 French Open, Williams played just four more matches before bowing out at the US Open. In her post-match press conference against Tan, she tearfully admitted, "I'm not sure if I'll be back here. We'll see."
Tan, meanwhile, reached the fourth round at Wimbledon later that year—her best Grand Slam performance—but has struggled to maintain that level. Injuries and confidence issues have plagued her, though she insists she's now fully fit. "I deserve this chance," she said. "I earned it."
FFT's Defense
FFT director Amélie Mauresmo, herself a two-time Grand Slam champion, defended the wildcard choices: "We consider many factors—current form, potential, and the long-term development of French tennis. These decisions are never easy."
However, critics argue that Tan's exclusion reflects a broader issue in tennis—where momentous achievements are quickly overshadowed by the next generation. Tennis historian Steve Flink noted, "Harmony Tan secured her place in history. The sport shouldn't forget that."
What's Next for Tan?
Tan has entered qualifying for the French Open and will need to win three matches to reach the main draw. She's vowed to use the snub as motivation: "If they won't give me a wildcard, I'll take my spot the hard way. Just like I took it from Serena."
The tennis world will be watching closely. Whether Tan succeeds or fails, her name will forever be linked to one of the sport's most poignant farewells—and now, to a controversy that underscores the harsh realities of professional tennis.