US Open 2025 Preview – Favorites, Dark Horses & What Really Matters
The final Grand Slam of the season is here – and the stage in New York is set for high drama, breakthrough moments, and legacy-defining wins. From the marquee names to rising contenders, the 2025 US Open is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and talent-rich editions in recent memory.
🔥 Men’s Field – Sinner Leads, but It’s Crowded at the Top
After his Grand Slam breakthrough in 2024 and a solid 2025 season, Jannik Sinner enters as the bookmakers’ favorite. Calm under pressure, devastating from both wings, and more physically durable than ever, Sinner has evolved into a complete player. His recent form backs it up – with deep runs in Toronto and Cincinnati, he’s earned the No.1 seed and all the expectations that come with it.
But Carlos Alcaraz isn’t far behind – in odds or in ability. Despite a few injury setbacks earlier this summer, the Spaniard remains the most dynamic and athletic talent on the ATP Tour. If he finds rhythm early, especially with his draw easing up in the first week, he could steamroll into another Flushing Meadows final.
Then there’s the home crowd favorite: Ben Shelton. After winning his first Masters 1000 title in Toronto, he’s playing with confidence and purpose. His booming serve and fearless game are tailor-made for hard courts. Can he handle the pressure of the spotlight? That remains to be seen – but he’s proven he can thrive in chaos.
Other names to watch:
Alexander Zverev, quietly having one of his most consistent seasons.
Holger Rune, dangerous when locked in.
And always, Daniil Medvedev – the 2021 US Open champion – who thrives on disruption and unpredictability.
👑 The Women’s Draw – Depth, Power & New Threats
The WTA side is even more stacked. Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, leads the draw with power, intensity, and a renewed mental edge. Her serve is still her weapon, but her improved movement and consistency make her especially dangerous in New York’s fast-paced conditions.
But momentum favors Iga Świątek, fresh off a historic double-bagel win at Wimbledon and a dominant performance in Cincinnati. She’s showing that she can adapt her clay-based baseline brilliance to faster courts – using angles, precision and her trademark composure to dismantle opponents. If she continues this trend, Slam No.7 might be closer than many think.
Then there’s the new wave:
Coco Gauff – still only 21, but now more tactically mature and calmer in clutch moments.
Elena Rybakina – ice-cold and devastating when she catches fire.
Victoria Mboko, the teenage sensation who won Montreal and seems to thrive on chaos. She’s a dark horse but brings fearless energy that could take her far.
💥 Early Buzz – Djokovic’s Opener, Wildcards & Emotional Stakes
Perhaps the most intriguing early matchup: Novak Djokovic opens against Learner Tien, a 19-year-old American wildcard who’s in strong form. Most expect Novak to win comfortably – but if Tien can push a set or generate momentum early, the stadium could tilt emotionally. Djokovic, now 38, is still seeking another Grand Slam to extend his legacy – but questions remain about motivation and physical reserves.
Also in the mix:
The return of Venus Williams, playing what could be her final US Open.
Local talents like Frances Tiafoe and Jessica Pegula carrying national hopes.
Emotional comebacks from players like Emma Raducanu, back after long injury absences.
🎯 Final Thoughts – Who Will Rise in NYC?
The US Open is never just about rankings or form. It’s about who can handle the lights, the crowd, the chaos – and still perform with clarity. That’s what makes Flushing Meadows so special: it rewards not just the best, but the boldest.
Whether it’s Sinner or Alcaraz, Świątek or Sabalenka – or a breakout name we’re not yet talking about – one thing’s certain:
New York will ask questions. Champions will answer.