U.S. Open Day 2: Sinner, Swiatek, and Alcaraz Headline Action in New York
Day 2 of the U.S. Open sees top seeds Jannik Sinner, Iga Swiatek, and Carlos Alcaraz begin their campaigns, while Naomi Osaka faces Jelena Ostapenko in a high-profile clash.
Bollywood Fever: The first round of the U.S. Open continues on Tuesday, with the world’s top tennis players vying for Grand Slam glory under the bright lights of New York. A packed day of action awaits fans, featuring some of the biggest names in the sport as they take to the courts at Flushing Meadows.
Top Men’s Match: Jannik Sinner vs. Mackenzie McDonald
All eyes will be on men’s top seed Jannik Sinner as he begins his U.S. Open campaign against American Mackenzie McDonald in the day session at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The Italian star, who won the Cincinnati title earlier this month, has been in the spotlight for more than just his tennis recently. Controversy surrounded Sinner after he was cleared of a doping ban, having twice tested positive for the banned substance clostebol in March. Despite the scrutiny, Sinner remains focused on his game.
“It’s not ideal before a Grand Slam,” the 23-year-old said. “But in my mind, I know I haven’t done anything wrong. I’ve had to play for months with this in my head, but I always respect the anti-doping rules, and I’m just relieved to be here. I’ll try to enjoy it and have a good tournament.”
Sinner will be hoping to avoid any backlash from the New York crowd as he faces McDonald, an American who will no doubt have home-court support.
Top Women’s Match: Iga Swiatek vs. Kamila Rakhimova
Women’s top seed Iga Swiatek is set to open her U.S. Open campaign against Russia’s Kamila Rakhimova. Swiatek, who reached the semifinals in Cincinnati, returns to the venue where she captured her first U.S. Open title in 2022. However, the Polish star admitted that hard courts remain a challenge for her compared to her dominance on clay.
“In 2022, that was the Grand Slam where I felt the least comfortable, even though I won,” Swiatek said. “I didn’t feel like I could play my game naturally. But that experience taught me that I can still win even when I’m not at 100%.”
Swiatek will look to kick off her title defense with a strong performance as she continues to adapt to the hard courts of Flushing Meadows.
Naomi Osaka Faces Tricky Test Against Jelena Ostapenko
In one of the most anticipated matchups of the day, Naomi Osaka, a two-time U.S. Open champion, returns to the tournament after a lengthy maternity break. The Japanese star, who has struggled to regain her top form, faces a tough opener against 2017 French Open champion Jelena Ostapenko. Both players are known for their aggressive play, and this match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Order of Play for Tuesday
Fans can look forward to an exciting day of tennis across the main showcourts. Here’s the order of play for the second day of the U.S. Open:
Arthur Ashe Stadium (Starting at 12 PM ET):
- 1-Iga Swiatek (Poland) vs. Kamilla Rakhimova (Russia)
- 1-Jannik Sinner (Italy) vs. Mackenzie McDonald (U.S.)
- 3-Carlos Alcaraz (Spain) vs. Li Tu (Australia)
- Shelby Rogers (U.S.) vs. 6-Jessica Pegula (U.S.)
Louis Armstrong Stadium (Starting at 11 AM ET):
- 11-Danielle Collins (U.S.) vs. Caroline Dolehide (U.S.)
- 10-Jelena Ostapenko (Latvia) vs. Naomi Osaka (Japan)
- Dusan Lajovic (Serbia) vs. 5-Daniil Medvedev (Russia)
- Bianca Andreescu (Canada) vs. 5-Jasmine Paolini (Italy)
- Lorenzo Sonego (Italy) vs. 14-Tommy Paul (U.S.)
As the tournament progresses, the intensity will only increase, with the world’s best players battling for a chance to lift the prestigious U.S. Open trophy. Stay tuned for all the action as the journey to Grand Slam glory continues in New York.
Also Read Latest Sports News, Novak Djokovic Laments Late Night U.S. Open Start as He Advances to Second Round
Yoshihito Nishioka Forced to Retire from U.S. Open After Scary Injury During Fifth Set
Caitlin Clark Emerging as Clear Favorite for WNBA Rookie of the Year
