Aug. 20, 2003

The 2003 NCAA champion doubles team of Raquel Kops-Jones and Christina Fusano have come into most of their collegiate matches as overwhelming favorites. Now, however, they must have much more humble demeanors, as they face off against the world's best next week, at the USTA US Open. The duo will compete as a wild card selection, in the main draw doubles, which begin Aug. 25.

"It's going to be a lot tougher and more diversified out there," Kops-Jones said. "The players know more about the game on this level, so we will have to be ready."

Kops-Jones and Fusano take the giant step up to the professional circuit after a stellar year dominating the collegiate ranks.

"I am pretty excited about the opportunity," Kops-Jones said. "It is going to be a different type of pressure out there."

The pair was named National Doubles Team of the Month for March and April and went on to become conference and national champions. With a record of 37-10 during the 2002-03 season, the pair earned ITA Doubles Team of the Year honors and will be named to the prestigious 2003 Intercollegiate Tennis Association All-Star Team, later this week.