Steve Johnson, former USC tennis star and two-time NCAA singles champion, received a wild card invitation to compete in the singles at the oldest and most storied tournament in tennis. Well into his first year as a professional, he secured his wild card spot by winning the ATP Challenger title in Nottingham last week. This will be the first time Johnson plays on the grass courts of Wimbledon since becoming a professional a year ago.
In his time at USC, Johnson was a seven-time All-American and helped lead the Trojans to four straight NCAA Team Championships. The three-time team captain did not lose a singles match throughout his entire senior season, and only lost a doubles match once.
Since going pro last summer, Johnson has achieved main draw singles appearances in all four Grand Slam tournaments this year. Last month he qualified for the French Open but fell in the first round to Albert Montanes. He is currently ranked No. 100 in the world in singles and No.133 in doubles.
Maria Sanchez, also a former Trojan, competed in Wimbledon qualifying play earlier this week but fell in the second round. Sanchez recently won the WTA doubles championship in Nottingham and is currently ranked #114 in the world in singles and #113 in doubles.
The men's draw will be announced on June 21 and action begins at the Wimbledon on June 24. Stay updated on Johnson's progress at Wimbledon.com.
