A field without a favorite
The US Open has rarely felt this unpredictable. Jannik Sinner, the top-ranked men's player, is missing the tournament. Carlos Alcaraz is back after an injury layoff, but no one knows how his body will hold up over two weeks. On the women's side, Aryna Sabalenka is defending her title while clearly below her best form. That combination has left the draw wide open, and players ranked well outside the top ten believe they have a real chance to go deep. The last time the men's draw felt this open, a first-time champion emerged, and many players say this year could repeat that pattern.
Returns and new faces
Opening day brought a mix of nostalgia and youth. Serena Williams and Roger Federer both appeared at the tournament, drawing huge crowds and reminding fans of the sport's recent golden era. Meanwhile, teenage players made their Grand Slam debuts, including Alex Eala, who arrived with a roaring fan base from her home region. The contrast between eras was on full display in New York. The tournament also welcomed back players who missed last year through injury, and qualifying rounds produced several qualifiers who could cause early upsets.
What to watch this week
The first week will separate contenders from pretenders. Alcaraz's movement will be tested in the early rounds, and Sabalenka will need wins to rebuild confidence. Dark horses are circling: players like Coco Gauff, who is riding momentum from recent results, and a pack of young men's players eager to reach their first major semifinal. With the top of the sport in flux, the 2026 US Open may be remembered as the year order broke apart. Night sessions at Arthur Ashe Stadium will host the biggest names, while the outer courts will showcase the next generation of talent. Weather, too, will play a role: New York is expecting hot, humid conditions that can test endurance in five-set matches.