Djokovic hunts a record 25th Grand Slam as Sabalenka defends and Shelton chases a big night at the US Open
The US Open second round action begins with a focus on Novak Djokovic, who is pursuing a record-extending 25th major title, while Aryna Sabalenka, the world number one and defending champion, looks to maintain her title bid. American youngster Ben Shelton is also in the spotlight, facing veteran Pablo Carreno Busta on home soil.
Djokovic, 38, comes into New York with the weight of history on his shoulders. A Grand Slam title in 2024 has eluded him through the year’s last seven majors, and if he falls short again at Flushing Meadows, it would mark two calendar years without a major for the first time since 2010. He began his campaign with a straight-sets win over Learner Tien, but a blister on his right foot made the second set tight, forcing a tiebreak before he could seal the deal. Next up is a test against 22-year-old Zachary Svajda, another young American who could pose a genuine challenge as Djokovic pushes toward another deep run.
Sabalenka’s bid to defend her title remains center stage in the women’s draw. The top seed opened with a 7-5, 6-1 victory over Rebeka Masarova, confirming she’s back in form as she seeks back-to-back major glory. In the second round she is set to meet Polina Kudermetova, who at 22 will arrive fresher after advancing past Nuria Parrizas-Diaz, who retired with an ankle injury just 24 minutes into their match. Sabalenka and Kudermetova have a prior brush at the Brisbane International in January, where Kudermetova pushed the world No. 1 to a first-set setback before Sabalenka recovered to win. The matchup promises a test of Sabalenka’s consistency against Kudermetova’s creative game.
On the American front, home favourite Ben Shelton will duel with veteran Pablo Carreno Busta in a high-profile second-round clash. Shelton’s participation adds extra energy to the New York crowd as the next generation of American men contends with a seasoned European challenger.
What to watch as the round unfolds:
– Djokovic’s pursuit of a historic 25th major will be tested again in round two; a deep run would further cement his status as one of the game’s all-time greats, while any stumble would alter the narrative of his title chase this season.
– Sabalenka’s defense vs Kudermetova will offer a clear read on whether the world No. 1 can sustain the level that has carried her through top opposition this year.
– Shelton’s matchup against Carreno Busta provides a gauge of American flame for the home crowd and could set up potential breakthroughs as the Open progresses.
Summary: The second round at the US Open features a mix of seasoned majors contenders and rising talents, with Djokovic chasing a historic milestone, Sabalenka aiming to protect a title-winning form, and Shelton hoping to make a bold statement at a tournament that regularly delivers dramatic twists.
Outlook: Expect tight, high-intensity tennis as the Open moves forward, with veterans and emerging stars alike aiming to shape the week’s drama and momentum for the rounds to come.
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