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US Open begins with open fields following injuries and shifts in top rankings
Top-ranked players face injuries and recent setbacks, creating broad opportunities in both the men's and women's draws.
The short version
- The U.S. Open begins Sunday in New York with top contenders facing injuries, extended absences, or recent poor form.
- Jannik Sinner is out due to a knee injury, Carlos Alcaraz is returning from a four-month wrist injury, and Aryna Sabalenka enters following several hard-court losses.
- Alexander Zverev enters as the top seed in the men's draw, while several women's players are in position to contend for the No. 1 ranking.
- Defending champions and emerging contenders will look to see if Alcaraz can quickly return to peak form or if a new champion will emerge.
Key facts
- The U.S. Open tennis tournament begins Sunday in New York.[Associated Press]
- Men's No. 1 Jannik Sinner is missing the tournament because of a knee injury sustained during his Wimbledon win.[Associated Press]
- Carlos Alcaraz is returning to defend his title after being sidelined since April due to a right wrist injury.[Associated Press]
- Alexander Zverev is the No. 1 seed in the men's draw.[Associated Press]
- Aryna Sabalenka enters the tournament after fourth-round exits at Wimbledon and two subsequent hard-court events, putting her No. 1 ranking at risk.[Associated Press]
- Jessica Pegula and Coco Gauff enter the women's tournament as the No. 3 and No. 4 seeds, respectively.[Associated Press]
- Novak Djokovic exited his first match at the Cincinnati tournament and cited an unspecified health issue related to heat.[Associated Press]
What remains uncertain
- It is unknown how effectively Carlos Alcaraz will perform after missing four months of competition.[Associated Press]
- It remains uncertain whether Aryna Sabalenka will retain the No. 1 ranking, as multiple players could surpass her depending on tournament results.[Associated Press]