U.S. Open Champion Sloane Stephens Is Set to Defend Her Title—and Defy Her Critics

Youth tennis clinics, like the one reigning U.S. Open champion Sloane Stephens is holding for some two dozen children in Washington, D.C., on this stifling summer afternoon, tend to be lighthearted affairs known in the trade as a hit and giggle. Pro player lobs a few shots to the kiddies, waves to the cameras, signs some autographs. Sponsor gets exposure, star gives back, kids pick up some tips--everyone goes home happy.

Stephens, however, doesn't like such "foo-foo"--her words--affairs.