LONDON — Wimbledon 2024 has already made history before the first ball is even struck, as three British teenage girls—Hannah Klugman, Mika Stojsavljevic, and Mimi Xu—have secured their places in the main draw, marking the first time three British juniors have achieved this feat in the Open Era.
Who Are the British Teenage Trio?
At just 15 years old, Hannah Klugman is the youngest of the trio but already a name to watch. The Surrey-born prodigy won the prestigious Orange Bowl in 2023, becoming the first British girl to do so since Anne Keothavong in 2001. Klugman, who trains at the National Tennis Centre, has been described by British No. 1 Katie Boulter as "a future Grand Slam champion—her composure and shot selection are beyond her years."
Mika Stojsavljevic, 17, has been steadily climbing the junior ranks with a powerful baseline game. Born in Oxford to Serbian and British parents, she reached the quarterfinals of the Australian Open juniors earlier this year. Her coach, former ATP player James Auckland, says, "Mika’s work ethic is incredible—she’s the first on court and the last to leave."
Mimi Xu, 16, rounds out the trio with her explosive serve and aggressive net play. The Welsh player, who balances tennis with her A-level studies, won the Junior Billie Jean King Cup with Klugman last year. Former British No. 1 Laura Robson remarked, "Mimi’s fearlessness reminds me of Emma Raducanu—she thrives under pressure."
How Did They Qualify?
All three earned wildcards into the main draw, a decision that has sparked debate but also excitement. The All England Club’s wildcard selections are based on:
- Recent junior performances
- Potential to compete at the senior level
- Representation of British tennis
Klugman and Stojsavljevic received direct wildcards, while Xu secured hers by winning the LTA’s Play Your Way to Wimbledon initiative. Tournament director Jamie Baker defended the choices, stating, "These girls have earned their spots—they’re not just talented, they’re ready."
Are They Ready for the Big Stage?
The leap from junior to senior tennis is daunting, but the trio has shown glimpses of their potential. Klugman pushed former US Open champion Sloane Stephens to three sets at last year’s Wimbledon qualifying. Stojsavljevic defeated WTA Top 200 player Yuriko Miyazaki in an ITF event, and Xu has trained with Raducanu, absorbing valuable experience.
However, challenges remain:
- Physicality: Can they handle best-of-three matches against seasoned pros?
- Pressure: Wimbledon’s Centre Court is a far cry from junior tournaments.
- Consistency: Maintaining focus over two weeks is a new test.
Former British Fed Cup captain Judy Murray offered a balanced view: "This is a huge opportunity, but it’s also a learning experience. The goal isn’t to win Wimbledon this year—it’s to gain exposure and grow."
What’s Next for British Tennis?
The trio’s success is a testament to the LTA’s renewed focus on junior development. With Raducanu’s 2021 US Open win inspiring a new generation, British women’s tennis is enjoying a golden era. LTA performance director Michael Bourne said, "We’re building depth—these girls are just the beginning."
Conclusion
Whether Klugman, Stojsavljevic, and Xu make deep runs or bow out early, their presence at Wimbledon 2024 is historic. As Klugman put it: "We’re not just playing for ourselves—we’re showing the world what British tennis can do." The future looks bright, and the spotlight is firmly on this trailblazing trio.