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US Open tennis 2026 day one live
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
US Open main draw starts Aug 30 with Pegula, Medvedev, Djokovic in action.
Sinner's absence opens men's draw, making Djokovic's 25th Slam bid a key storyline.
Background
The US Open is the final Grand Slam of the tennis season, held annually at Flushing Meadows, New York. The 2026 main draw begins on Sunday, August 30, following qualifying rounds. Notable storylines include Jannik Sinner's absence due to injury, which opens up the men's draw, and Novak Djokovic's pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam title. The tournament runs until September 13.
How it unfolded
- Aug 23, 2026US Open officially kicks off with qualifying events and mixed doubles.
- Aug 24, 2026Qualifying Day 1 begins at USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, with 128 men and 128 women competing for 16 spots each.
- Aug 30, 2026Main singles draws begin; big names like Pegula, Medvedev, and Djokovic play their first-round matches.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- With Sinner out, the men's draw is wide open, making Djokovic a strong contender for a 25th Slam.
- Public
- Fans are excited for the return of Carlos Alcaraz and the doubles reunion of Serena and Venus Williams.