US OPEN CHAMP STEPHENS TALKS PRESSURE, LEGACY

Reigning US Open champion Sloane Stephens will be in uncharted territory when she arrives in New York City later this month to begin the defense of her title.
 

Speaking with USTA President and Chairman of the Board Katrina Adams on the CBS Sports Network show, "We Need To Talk," the 2017 women’s singles champion said she would likely feel added pressure when she steps foot inside Arthur Ashe Stadium for the first time since lifting the trophy almost one year ago.
 

The August episode of "We Need To Talk," the only nationally televised all-female sports show, discusses the topic of opportunities through sports, and Stephens speaks to a number of issues, including the importance of being a role model and meeting the social responsibilities that come with fame and success. 

World No. 3 Stephens discusses her work with the Compton Unified School District to offer programming in 23 locations across the city, and she highlights the importance of giving youngsters someone to look up to.
 

“I think more can always be done,” said Stephens, who spoke about the legacy she’s looking to leave behind off the court. “It’s definitely hard. I grew up across the street from a club, so I played. Accessibility is key.
 

“If you give a kid an opportunity, you give them a racquet, you give them a ball, you show them, they will fall in love with tennis.  … Make sure that the kids know what they have in front of them and what tools tennis can give them. I think just giving the opportunity, even a small one, can go so far.”
 

"We Need To Talk" airs at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 14. In addition to Adams’ interview with Stephens, this month’s episode also features NFL analyst and former Raiders’ CEO Amy Trask; CBS Sports reporter Dana Jacobson; award-winning sports journalist Andrea Kremer; and former WNBA star and basketball analyst Swin Cash.