Mirra Andreeva: The 18-year-old from Russia has been a dangerous floater in Grand Slam main draws for a few years, but after a charge up the rankings, the fifth seed in New York will be a serious threat to knock the top players off their perch. A recent issue in her left ankle notwithstanding.
Victoria Mboko: The Canadian, another 18-year-old sensation, announced herself on the global stage after defeating Naomi Osaka to win the WTA 1000 event at home in Montreal earlier this month. Maybe too early for a title charge for her, but few would like to face her early in the draw.
Elena Rybakina: Seeded ninth and in solid form, Rybakina is desperate for a positive result at a Major now. While she has reached highs in her career, a Wimbledon title and an Australian Open final to name a few, time may be running out for her to convert her bountiful talent into success. This fortnight in New York will be a good opportunity to do so.
Amanda Anisimova: After an impressive return to the elite places of women’s tennis this year, the ignominy of suffering a double bagel in the Wimbledon final may still be weighing on the American, who lost early in both WTA 1000s this month. Keep a keen eye on her to see how she bounces back.
Venus Williams: This is more of a name check than an indication about an upset. At 45, Venus is probably a far cry away from her best tennis that can unlock a run in New York. But perhaps playing in her last ever Major, with a raucous crowd behind her, expect her to enthrall nonetheless.
When does US Open main draw start?
The US Open’s main draw will take place from August 24 and will end on September 7 with the men’s and the women’s final. Aryna Sabalenka is the defending champion for the women’s singles title and Jannik Sinner is the defending champion in men’s singles.
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