The Sky Sports Tennis panel has laid out their predictions for the 2026 US Open, the final Grand Slam of the year, offering a mix of favorites and surprise picks. Former British star Tim Henman, former British Olympian Laura Robson, American prospect Ryan Harrison, British veteran Naomi Broady and legendary former champion Martina Navratilova are among the personalities who have shared their thoughts on who might lift the trophies in New York. Sascha Zverev, reflecting on his rapid development since his breakthrough at Roland Garros, emphasized how much more aggressive and proactive he has become.
Over the past twelve months he has learned to take the ball early from deep in the court, and his serve has reached a level of consistency that makes him a genuine threat. Zverev noted that the draw feels more open this year because Jannik Sinner is absent and Carlos Alcaraz is still recovering from a lengthy injury lay‑off. That combination, he believes, gives him confidence to seize the moment and push deep into the tournament. Aryna Sabalenka, despite a recent dip in form, was praised for the extra gear she finds when she steps onto a Grand Slam stage.
The panelist highlighted her heightened intensity, focus and concentration during the biggest events, invoking the classic adage that "form is temporary, class is permanent." Sabalenka’s pedigree suggests she can raise her level when it matters most, making her a contender regardless of a few lacklustre results. Arthur Fils was singled out for his impressive run to the Cincinnati quarter‑finals, a performance that earned him a spot on the panel’s list. The panelist warned that Fils would need to stay healthy to endure the rigours of up to seven best‑of‑five matches, but praised his powerful shot‑making and mental toughness.
If he can avoid injury, he could be a serious dark‑horse candidate for the title. Alex Eala, the young Filipino talent, received commendation for her rapid improvement and the strong support network surrounding her.
Her competitive spirit and positive attitude have made her a joy to watch, and the panelist expressed genuine excitement about her potential to cause upsets on the big stage. Novak Djokovic was described as a "great opportunity" despite a couple of recent losses and a less‑than‑stellar showing in Cincinnati. The panelist argued that Djokovic’s track record at majors outweighs a single hard‑court dip, pointing out his recent Australian Open final appearance on hard courts and his ability to rebound from setbacks.
Even though clay is not his favourite surface, his overall experience and resilience make him a plausible champion. Coco Gauff was expected to continue her hot streak, building on her recent successes and the momentum she gained from winning Cincinnati and the 2023 US Open.
The panelist believes that any technical flaws she has are becoming less noticeable as she matures, and that her confidence will translate into another deep run. Lerner Tien, noted for his excellent form and emotional composure in five‑set battles, was highlighted as a player to watch. His strong performances at the Australian Open demonstrate that he can handle the pressure of long matches, a crucial attribute for a Slam.
Sorana Cirstea was framed as a potential Cinderella story. After a career‑best season that she has hinted may be her final tour year, she could be motivated to make a memorable run at what might be her last Grand Slam appearance.
Iga Swiatek was praised for her aggressive spin‑laden game, which suits the fast, lively hard courts of Flushing Meadows. The panelist felt that Swiatek has rediscovered some of her star power in recent weeks, making her a credible threat to the title. Ben Shelton, the American crowd‑pleaser, was noted for thriving on home support.
His energetic play and connection with the New York audience could give him an extra boost. Marta Kostyuk, after a strong season, was described as being on the brink of a breakthrough.
The panelist believes a Slam victory could be the next logical step in her development. Carlos Alcaraz, the current favourite when healthy, was discussed with the caveat that his fitness will be decisive. The panelist compared his situation to past multiple‑Slam champions such as Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, suggesting that once Alcaraz is fully fit, he will likely dominate. Jessica Pegula’s consistency was highlighted as a key factor.
The panelist noted that when opponents falter, Pegula is ready to pounce, and her experience as a former finalist positions her well for another deep run. Ann Lee, an emerging American talent, has enjoyed a "sneaky good" season, climbing the rankings and earning a seed at the US Open. The panelist projects continued growth and even envisions a potential quarter‑final clash with Sabalenka.
Thiago Tirante was celebrated for his raw power, including a 120 mph forehand and a 145 mph serve recorded earlier in the year. The panelist believes his exciting style could propel him into the top 20 and make him a dark‑horse contender.
Frances Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work have paid dividends, according to the panelist, who sees him as a player capable of going the distance in a Grand Slam. Iva Jovic, a promising young prospect, was mentioned as a future Grand Slam champion. While she may be early for a deep US Open run, the panelist acknowledges that draws can open up unexpectedly.
The panel also offered several paired predictions, such as Zverev with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek, underscoring the variety of possible storylines. One commentator described Fils as a "dark horse" reminiscent of Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga, noting his charisma and enthusiasm after missing the previous year’s tournament.
Another highlighted Zverev’s confidence after his Roland Garros victory and Wimbledon final appearance, suggesting that with Alcaraz’s uncertainty, Iga Swiatek’s form could carry her far. Overall, the Sky Sports Tennis panel paints a picture of a US Open that is wide open, with established champions, rising stars and a handful of underdogs all vying for glory. The tournament begins on August 30 and will be streamed contract‑free on NOW and the Sky Sports app, with additional coverage of the Laver Cup at The O2 in London later in September.