South Carolina Duo Set for US Open Wild Card Playoffs

ORLANDO, Fla. – Sarah Hamner and Kaitlyn Carnicella of the South Carolina women’s tennis team have been selected to compete in doubles at the inaugural US Open Wild Card Playoffs, announced by the United States Tennis Association (USTA) on Wednesday morning. The event will take place from June 16-18 at the USTA National Campus in Orlando.

The playoffs are designed for top American collegiate players and will significantly increase the chances of American athletes earning wild cards for the US Open this year, with six guaranteed entries at stake. The winners of both singles and doubles competitions will receive wild cards for the main draw, while runners-up in singles will secure qualifying wild cards.

Hamner and Carnicella finished their season with an impressive No. 7 ITA ranking in doubles. They consistently ranked in the top 30 during the dual match season and completed the season with a 12-8 record, including a striking 8-2 against ranked opponents. Their most notable victory came against the No. 24 team from then-No. 3 Texas, which sealed the doubles point for the Gamecocks.

In the fall, the duo also achieved a significant win against No. 18 DJ Bennett and Ava Hraster of Auburn at the ITA All-American Championships. Their consistent performance throughout the year earned both players the title of ITA All-Americans in doubles.

The USTA will broadcast all matches streamed online, ensuring that fans can follow the action. Admission to the event is free, promoting accessibility for spectators to support the upcoming stars of tennis.

For further updates on the South Carolina women’s tennis team, fans can visit GamecocksOnline.com or follow them on their social media platforms.