Emma Navarro reached her first Grand Slam semifinal at the US Open, defeating Paula Badosa in straight sets. Reflecting on her success, Navarro credited her father, Ben Navarro, for his support and resources, recognizing how her family’s wealth provided her with unique opportunities in tennis.

“I had access to courts from a young age … I had coaches who would help me out,” Navarro said. “It did play a role in allowing me to be where I’m at now, and I’m super grateful that I did have those resources as a kid.”

Navarro’s father, a billionaire financier and one of the nation’s largest buyers of consumer debt, has been a significant influence on her tennis career. Ben’s investments in tennis include owning the Cincinnati Open and the Charleston Open, demonstrating his deep involvement in the sport.

Navarro grew up attending elite private schools and had access to top-tier facilities and coaches, advantages not available to many aspiring players. Still, she emphasized that hard work, not just privilege, was the key to her success. “I’ve put a ton of hours in and started training, getting in the gym since the time I was 8, 9 years old.”

Navarro’s experience echoes that of fellow American semifinalist Jessica Pegula, whose parents own the Buffalo Bills and Sabres. Pegula has often faced similar questions about her background but insists it doesn’t define her achievements on the court.

Navarro’s journey highlights the undeniable role of wealth in easing the path to tennis success. However, her dedication and perseverance remain central to her story. As she continues her breakthrough at the US Open, Navarro stands as a reminder of the importance of both privilege and hard work in reaching the top.

Navarro at the U.S. Open, ranking, and results in 2024

Now ranked no.12 (career-high), Navarro has a 52-20 match record in 2024. Navarro is participating at the U.S. Open where she conquered the world no.81 Anna Blinkova 6-1 6-1, the world no.93 Arantxa Rus 6-1 6-1, the world no.19 Marta Kostyuk 6-4 4-6 6-3, the world no.3 Cori Gauff 6-3 4-6 6-3 and the world no.29 Paula Badosa 6-2 7-5.

Navarro has won 1 title in 2024 in Hobart. Emma got to the final in the Paris.