Twenty-year-old tennis player Kaitlin Quevedo, enjoying a promising career in Spain, is at a pivotal moment after her recent debut in the main draw of Roland Garros. This achievement brings her close to the WTA Top 100, a goal for 2026. Born in the United States but with a father from Gran Canaria, Quevedo shared her aspirations and experiences in an interview.
Currently training in Barcelona for the upcoming tour, which includes an ITF 125 tournament in Italy and Wimbledon, Quevedo exudes positive energy. "I feel super good, with a lot of desire and positive energy," she stated. The player emphasized the importance of accumulating points in these tournaments to continue her progression.
Her experience at Roland Garros was described as "incredible" and "the best week" of her career. Reaching the main draw and playing two matches, one on the main court Philippe Chatrier, and facing a Top 10 player, taught her valuable lessons. "Ultimately, I didn't notice such a big difference in level," she noted, acknowledging that while some players are superior, everyone has the potential to win.
Quevedo recalled her historic victory against Venus Williams at the Mutua Madrid Open on April 21st. "Playing against a player like Venus was impressive," she confessed with a laugh, describing the match as controlling the rhythm and emotions on the center court. "Luckily, it worked out and ended in a win," she added.
Quevedo's short-term goals include finishing the season in the Top 100, winning a 125 tournament, and, if possible, directly entering the main draw of the US Open. "Trying to keep improving every day and maintaining consistency is super important for me because things will come," she stressed.
Her biggest dream is to "win Roland Garros and take Canarias far." Clay is her preferred surface, partly due to the influence of her idol, Rafa Nadal. "Also, someday reaching number one, but above all, winning Roland Garros would be incredible," she stated.
Earlier this year, former tennis player Carla Suárez, captain of the Spanish women's team, invited her to participate in the Billie Jean King Cup. Quevedo described the call as a gratifying surprise and the experience as "very rewarding," hoping for more future opportunities.
Born in the United States, Quevedo moved to Barcelona at 17 to join a high-performance center. The Spanish Tennis Federation showed interest, leading her to decide to compete under the Spanish flag. "I think it was the right decision, and I've had great opportunities competing for Spain," she affirmed.
Despite her tight schedule, Quevedo tries to visit Gran Canaria at least once a year to see her family. "I love visiting Gran Canaria whenever I can. I have a lot of family there and I'm very fond of the island," she expressed. She usually trains at the Real Club de Tenis de Gran Canaria, highlighting its fast courts.
Regarding tennis in the Canary Islands, she mentioned young talents Alberto Pulido and Lucía Rodríguez at TEC, predicting their progression on the international stage. "Tennis in the Canary Islands is progressing, and I believe there's a very good group of young talent coming up," she concluded.
