The US Open draw has been released, revealing potential high-stakes matchups and notable absences as the tournament approaches. Defending champion Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz find themselves on opposite sides of the bracket, setting up a possible final showdown between the two tennis giants. Alcaraz, seeded No. 3, may first have to navigate through a potential semifinal against No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who was recently cleared of intentional doping charges.In a significant blow to the tournament, 2022 US Open finalist Ons Jabeur has withdrawn due to a persistent shoulder injury. Jabeur, who was seeded 17th, has been struggling with injuries throughout the season, leading to her absence from several tournaments, including the Olympics. Belgian player Elise Mertens will take Jabeur’s place as the 33rd seed.As players prepare for the tournament, 2021 US Open champion Emma Raducanu faces a challenging first-round match against Sofia Kenin, ranked world No. 55. Meanwhile, Jannik Sinner, having put his doping case behind him, has begun training at Arthur Ashe Stadium with coaches Darren Cahill and Simone Vagnozzi.The qualifying rounds have also produced some interesting outcomes. Australian Li Tu, ranked 188th in the world, fought his way through three higher-ranked opponents to secure a spot in the main draw, where he will face Carlos Alcaraz in the first round. Similarly, Solana Sierra, a 20-year-old from Argentina, made history by qualifying for her first US Open main draw.With the tournament set to begin on August 26, the stage is set for two weeks of intense competition, compelling storylines, and potential upsets at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.
Key points
- The US Open draw places Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz on opposite sides, setting up a potential final match.
- 2022 finalist Ons Jabeur has withdrawn from the tournament due to a shoulder injury.
- Emma Raducanu faces Sofia Kenin in a challenging first-round match.
- Jannik Sinner, cleared of doping charges, begins training at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
- Several players, including Li Tu and Solana Sierra, have advanced through qualifying rounds.
