67 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com BY COLIN MCCANDLESS Farewell, Mrs. Rogers Capping a 15-year professional tennis career, Mount Pleasant native Shelby Rogers competed in her final singles match on the WTA Tour Aug. 27 at iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium against fellow American Jessica Pegula in the US Open’s first round, eventually falling 4-6, 3-6. “It was such an honor to be able to play on Ashe again and have that moment where I’ve had so many memories in the past and share it with Jessie,” reflected Rogers. The two close friends have known each other since childhood and played together in juniors. Rogers said the recognition the US Open gave her after the match left an indelible impression. “I was really grateful for the respect that they showed me and to really share the moment with everyone in that stadium and on TV is something I’ll never forget for sure.” Raised in Snee Farm, Rogers began playing tennis when she was 4 years old, following her older sister Sabra around on the courts of Snee Farm Country Club holding a racquet while Sabra took lessons. At 7, Rogers started taking proper lessons at Family Circle with a tennis pro named Bryan Minton, focusing on technique and development. That same year, she first served as a ball girl at the Family Circle Cup (now Credit One Charleston Open). Rogers described it as a privilege being exposed to a high level of tennis at such a young age. “Not everyone gets that opportunity, and I did not overlook that because I think having it be a little more tangible and seeing what it took, seeing these girls train up close, really inspired me on another level.” Rogers observed the momentum shifts Hometown tennis star Shelby Rogers retires
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