Top-seeded Alexander Zverev is set to commence his US Open campaign, aiming to add another Grand Slam title to his collection following his maiden major victory at the French Open earlier this year. The German star, however, carries the memory of a near-miss at this very tournament, where he squandered a two-set lead in the 2020 final against Dominic Thiem. It would be six years after that disappointment that Zverev finally claimed a major trophy at Roland Garros.

Zverev Seeks Redemption at Flushing Meadows

Reflecting on his past experiences, Zverev expressed that the sting of the 2020 US Open final loss remains. “I still feel like I should have won in 2020, that doesn’t change,” he stated ahead of his opening-round match against Italy’s Lorenzo Sonego. This sentiment underscores his determination to perform well at Flushing Meadows, a venue that has previously presented both opportunity and heartbreak.

Zverev’s recent form leading up to the US Open has been somewhat inconsistent. Despite a strong showing that included reaching the Wimbledon final after his French Open success, his results in the lead-up tournaments have been less stellar. He experienced early exits in Montreal and a fourth-round defeat in Cincinnati. Nevertheless, Zverev is optimistic about his game’s trajectory.

“I definitely feel like my game has been coming back, and it’s been better and better every practice session that I’ve had,” Zverev shared. “I hope I can show my best tennis here again.” His first-round opponent, the 89th-ranked Sonego, presents a statistically favorable matchup, as Zverev boasts a perfect 6-0 head-to-head record against him. This encounter could serve as the ideal opportunity for Zverev to regain his top form on the Grand Slam stage.

Gauff Eyes Another Home Slam Title

In the women’s draw, fourth-seeded American Coco Gauff is also a prominent figure as the first round concludes. Fresh off her victory at the Australian Open and closing in on the world number one ranking, Elena Rybakina is also in action. Gauff, who captured her first Grand Slam title at the US Open in 2023, arrives at Flushing Meadows with significant expectations for another deep run.

Gauff’s confidence is bolstered by her recent WTA 1000 title win in Cincinnati, her first since October last year. This success marks a significant turnaround from the 2025 season, when service struggles led her to make a coaching change just days before the tournament. Her powerful game and extensive experience position her as a strong favorite against Turkey’s Zeynep Sonmez, ranked 53rd. Sonmez’s sole WTA title to date was secured in Merida in 2024.

Eala Continues Her Ascent

The spotlight also shines on rising star Alexandra Eala of the Philippines. Making her second appearance in the US Open main draw, Eala enters the tournament on the back of her first WTA title, won in Washington earlier this month. This victory has further cemented her status as a global talent.

Eala’s matches at the US Open are anticipated to draw significant support from passionate Filipino fans, who have become a familiar and vocal presence at her tournaments. However, she will also face a strong contingent of American supporters for her first-round opponent, qualifier Mary Stoiana. Stoiana, ranked 122nd, is a former collegiate number one who led Texas A&M to the NCAA title in 2024. She will be eager to make a statement in her debut match against a top-20 player like Eala, whom she has faced once before, winning that encounter.

Matches to Watch on Day 3

Beyond the headline matches, the third day of the US Open promises several compelling contests. The focus remains on how the top seeds navigate the early rounds, with Zverev’s quest for a second Grand Slam title and Gauff’s pursuit of another home Slam title being key narratives.

Eala’s match against Stoiana is also set to be a captivating encounter, pitting a rising international star against a talented American qualifier with collegiate success. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, fueled by both Eala’s dedicated fanbase and the home crowd’s support for Stoiana.

As the first round draws to a close, the US Open is already delivering thrilling tennis and compelling storylines, setting the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.