French Connection Brings Tennis Success for Justine Lespes

Justine Lespes earned her endearing “Frenchie” nickname as a French tennis sensation who has had one of the most successful and inspiring stories in Georgia Gwinnett College women’s tennis history. 

The 25-year-old has had a perfect 43-0 record in singles during dual matches, mostly as the Grizzlies’ No. 1 player. The two-time first NAIA All-America team selection stands No. 3 nationally this season, selected by the Intercollegiate Tennis Association.

Most importantly, she has helped GGC win two NAIA national championships. 

However, making the adjustment to living and being a college student in America was filled with risks when Lespes arrived from France in 2021. Her journey started at Seward County Community College (Kansas), earning No. 2 national ranking among junior college players, and then continued in the successful GGC program in January of 2023.

Lespes didn't simply arrive to the team, she became a cornerstone in the Grizzlies’ lineup. Her unbeaten 43-0 record in singles, including a dazzling 22-0 mark in No. 1 court matches, brought NAIA first All-America team honors and ITA NAIA All-America team recognition in singles and doubles. She also claimed the ITA 2023 NAIA singles national championship and the NAIA’s Player of the Week on several occasions. 

“She’s the complete package,” remarks Head Coach Hannah Keeling about her No. 1 singles player. “Hard-working, loyal, and determined, she’s everything you want in a leader. But more than her tennis ability, it’s her energy, heart, and belief in herself that makes her stand out.”

That confidence was never more evident than in the final match of the 2024 NAIA National Championship tournament. With the title on the line, Lespes faced a talented Keiser University (Florida) opponent at the No. 1 court. After losing the opening set by a 7-5 score, she responded to capture the next two sets by identical 6-4 scores. 

“She never quit,” Keeling recalls. “She kept fighting, kept pushing her teammates. She flipped the game around in three sets, and that transferred to the whole team. What she did wasn't about one point or one game, it was leadership in action.”

GGC came back from a 3-1 deficit to capture its eighth straight national championship with a 4-3 match victory.

Lespes led the way and was named the Marvin P. Richmond Most Outstanding Player honor for her play at the national championship tournament. For the second year in a row, she finished the season unbeaten in singles and earned NAIA first All-America team honors and was the National Player of the Week on two occasions.

This spring, Lespes has continued her winning ways with a 9-0 record in singles and has contributed as well on the No. 1 doubles court.

Beyond the awards and the unbeaten marks, Lespes’ tale is one of personal growth. The young woman who came to America from France is now the heartbeat of the GGC tennis team – as a leader, mentor, and role model.

When she first came to Lawrenceville, Lespes’ presence was already strong, Keeling states. “As time progressed, she completed that leadership role so naturally. She didn't have to be instructed. Now, the team looks up to her not so much the way she plays, but the individual she is.”

Now as a senior, Lespes is about to leave behind a legacy that includes more than trophies. Her story is a testament to perseverance, courage and believing in something bigger than yourself.

With Senior Day behind her, graduation on the horizon, and the 2025 NAIA National Championships awaiting during mid-May in Mobile, Alabama, Lespes’ rise is not a tale of tennis but a testament to the power of commitment, courage, and always striving for excellence.