3 days ago
Shreveport's own aims to take it all at the French Open, who is Christian Harrison
PARIS, France (KTAL/KMSS) – Nearly 4,000 professional tennis players compete every year, but only about 250 receive invitations to play on the prestigious clay courts of Roland-Garros in Paris. With just one week remaining before the tournament ends, this Shreveporter is determined to take home the title.
Christian Harrison fought his way up the ranks when it came to playing tennis doubles, but his plans did not always involve having a partner. Plagued with injuries and many surgeries that began as early as 2009, Harrison's path required a re-focus that propelled him to heights he never reached before.
A Shreveport native, he was born and raised in the city, sharing strong family ties in the community. His father, Pat Harrison was also born in Shreveport and served as the Head Pro at both the Shreveport Country Club and Pierremont Oaks Tennis Club before relocating his family to Texas in 2004, then landing at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida in 2008. There, he continued to coach Christian, along with his brother Ryan and his sister Madison.
Christian debuted on ITF Junior Circuit at age 13 before injuries and illnesses sidelined him.
He was subjected to many surgeries between 2009 and 2018.
Left femur (2009), right hip (2013), left hip (2014), right shoulder (2014), right wrist (2014), right adductor (2014), left adductor (2014) and left femur (2018).
Despite undergoing multiple surgeries, the family's dedication and his hard work paid off. Christian qualified for Wimbledon 2022, winning his opening match, a feat he had always dreamed of. But once again, his body let him down with a foot injury, leaving him unable to walk. He left the court knowing he would not be able to continue to the next round.
He found himself at a crossroads, having to choose between playing singles and risking further injuries or putting all of his attention towards a more physically manageable doubles career. With more left to give, he decided to continue playing as part of a doubles team. The decision quickly paid off.
In 2024, Christian began playing with partner Evan King. In just their second Association of Tennis Professionals Tour (ATP), the duo found success, winning the Dallas Open in February 2025. Christian, who was ranked 198 in men's singles, was now ranked number 54 as a part of the dynamic men's doubles pair. By March 2025, they reached a new career-high doubles ranking of 36 in the world. In May, the pair were ranked number 19, well qualifying them for the French Open held at Roland Garros in Paris.
The French Open began on May 19 and players will battle it out through June 8, 2025.
Currently, Christian and Evan have advanced to the third round in men's doubles. In mixed doubles Christian plays with N. Melichar-Martinez where they have advanced to the second round at the ongoing tournament.
He is set to compete in both events tomorrow, showcasing his skills and determination on the court as he seeks to make his mark in this year's French Open.
The path to success will involve beating out last year's French open champions Marcelo Arévalo and Mate Pavić, who won the title in 2024 by defeating Simone Bolelli and Andrea Vavassori in the final.
Your family has a variety of options to catch all the action and root for Shreveport. Coverage is available on TNT Sports, truTV, and Max. You can even listen live and view playing schedules of other fan favorites like Coco Gauff on
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