Among the most anticipated opening matches, world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka looks to defend her title as she faces Rebeka Masarova. Sabalenka has dominated the WTA Tour in 2025, winning 50 of 60 matches and maintaining an 18-1 record in tiebreaks. However, she has yet to secure a Grand Slam this year, with Iga Świątek hot on her heels for the top ranking. Masarova previously pushed Sabalenka to a tiebreak at the Berlin Open, suggesting an intriguing rematch.
On the men’s side, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic faces rising American talent Learner Tien. Djokovic, now 38, is laser-focused on adding to his Grand Slam tally, but Tien, just 19, has already defeated four top-10 players this year with his aggressive serve and refined shot-making. The opening round promises a fascinating clash of generations and playing styles.
Other notable matches include Ben Shelton, fresh off his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Toronto, against Peruvian qualifier Ignacio Buse. Shelton’s powerful game and recent form make him a favorite, but Buse’s confidence from a strong run in the Challenger circuit adds an element of unpredictability. Meanwhile, Jessica Pegula, last year’s U.S. Open finalist, enters the tournament with questions about her form as she takes on Mayar Sherif. Pegula admitted in her pre-tournament press conference that she is still searching for peak confidence.
British star Emma Raducanu, the 2021 U.S. Open champion, seeks her first win at the event since her historic title run. Now coached by Francisco Roig, Rafael Nadal’s former lieutenant, Raducanu faces qualifier Ena Shibahara, who is primarily known for her doubles prowess.
For American fans, Taylor Fritz, the top-ranked U.S. man and last year’s finalist, opens against wild card Emilio Nava in a highly anticipated all-American clash. Nava earned his spot by winning the USTA Challenge, rewarding his recent hard-court performance.
On the upset watch is Daniil Medvedev, who faces Benjamin Bonzi. Medvedev, the archetypal big-serving counterpuncher, has seen a decline in his serve velocity and defensive sharpness, and Bonzi already has a recent win over him at Wimbledon.
Other matches to keep an eye on include Alexandra Eala versus Clara Tauson, Emma Navarro against Wang Yafan, and an all-Canadian duel between Rebecca Marino and Leylah Fernandez, the latter coming in with momentum from her WTA 500 title in Washington, D.C.
As the US Open unfolds, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the new schedule impacts player performance and whether established stars or rising talents will seize the moment in New York. For full draws, live updates, and results, the official US Open site and ESPN provide comprehensive coverage.