NEW YORK — Behind every great athlete is often an equally impressive partner, and for American tennis star Frances Tiafoe, that person is Ayan Broomfield. While Tiafoe’s powerful forehand and charismatic on-court presence have made him a fan favorite at the US Open and beyond, his relationship with Broomfield has become a point of fascination for fans. A former collegiate tennis standout herself, Broomfield’s own story is compelling, featuring a unique chapter where she served as a body double for none other than tennis legend Venus Williams.
The couple’s relationship, which became public knowledge in 2021, represents a union of two individuals deeply entrenched in the world of professional tennis. They are frequently seen supporting each other at tournaments, with Broomfield often in Tiafoe’s player box, offering quiet encouragement. Their shared understanding of the pressures, travel, and dedication required to succeed at the highest level of the sport provides a strong foundation for their partnership, both on and off the court.
From Collegiate Champion to Venus's Double
Ayan Broomfield’s journey in tennis is noteworthy in its own right. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Broomfield was a highly-touted junior player before taking her talents to the United States to play NCAA Division I tennis. She enjoyed a stellar collegiate career at UCLA, where she was an integral part of the Bruins' 2014 NCAA National Championship team. Her powerful game and competitive spirit made her a formidable opponent on the collegiate circuit.
However, one of the most intriguing lines on her resume is her role as a body double for Venus Williams. This unique opportunity arose during the production of the 2017 film King Richard, the biopic that chronicles the early lives of Venus and Serena Williams, guided by their father, Richard. Broomfield was hired to stand in for the actress Saniyya Sidney, who played a young Venus, during the filming of tennis sequences.
Her selection was no accident. The film’s producers needed someone who could not only mimic the athletic prowess and specific strokes of a young Venus Williams but also embody her powerful physical presence on the court. Broomfield’s tennis pedigree, athletic build, and ability to replicate professional strokes made her the perfect candidate. She spent weeks on set, helping to create the authentic tennis scenes that were critical to the film's success and its eventual Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.
A Supportive Presence in Tiafoe's Corner
Since going public with their relationship, Ayan Broomfield has become a constant and supportive presence in Frances Tiafoe’s career. Her deep understanding of the sport allows her to provide a unique form of support that goes beyond that of a typical partner. She comprehends the mental fatigue of a long season, the agony of a tough loss, and the euphoria of a major victory.
This was never more evident than during Tiafoe’s historic run to the semifinals of the 2022 US Open. Broomfield was a fixture in his player box, her reactions mirroring the emotions of millions of fans. After Tiafoe’s epic five-set victory over Rafael Nadal’s conqueror, Frances told the press, "Having her there, someone who gets it… it’s everything. She knows what it takes. She keeps me grounded and reminds me to have fun out there."
Broomfield’s support extends beyond the grandstands. She often trains with Tiafoe, providing a high-level hitting partner who can push him in practice. Their shared life revolves around the tennis tour, but they also make time for their life away from the spotlight. Their social media accounts offer glimpses into a relationship built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and a lot of laughter, often featuring them playing golf or enjoying downtime with friends and family.
Building Their Legacy On and Off the Court
Both Tiafoe and Broomfield are keenly aware of their platforms and are focused on building a legacy that extends beyond tennis rankings and trophies. Tiafoe, through his work with the Tiafoe Foundation, is passionate about inspiring the next generation and making tennis more accessible to children from all backgrounds. Broomfield, who graduated from UCLA with a degree in Communications, has her own ambitions within the sport and the business world.
While she stepped back from pursuing a professional playing career, she remains deeply connected to tennis. Her experiences—as a player, a body double for an icon, and the partner of a top-ranked star—have given her a multifaceted perspective on the industry. She has spoken about potential ventures in sports media, coaching, or continuing her work in growing the game from the grassroots level.
The couple’s dynamic is a modern example of a tennis power couple. They are not defined by one person's career but are instead building a life together where both of their experiences contribute to their collective success. Broomfield’s journey from NCAA champion to Venus Williams’s double to supportive partner for a US Open star is a testament to her versatility and deep love for the game.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As Frances Tiafoe continues his ascent in the ATP rankings, with ambitions of winning a Grand Slam, he does so with a partner who is his equal in understanding and passion for the game. Ayan Broomfield’s unique path has equipped her with the perfect toolkit to support Tiafoe through the highs and lows of professional sports. Together, they represent a new generation of tennis personalities: talented, charismatic, and using their influence to make a positive impact. Their story is far from over, and the tennis world will undoubtedly be watching as they continue to build their future, both together and individually, within the sport they love.