The Sky Sports Tennis panel has laid out their predictions for the upcoming US Open, the final Grand Slam of the 2026 season, highlighting both the players they expect to lift the trophy and the dark horses they believe could cause upsets. Among the commentators offering their insights are former British stars Tim Henman and Laura Robson, American hopeful Ryan Harrison, seasoned competitor Naomi Broady, and legendary former champion Martina Navratilova.
Each of them brings a unique perspective shaped by personal experience, recent form, and an eye for emerging talent. Sascha Zverev, reflecting on his own evolution since clinching his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros, noted a marked increase in aggression and proactive play. "He's taken the ball earlier off the backhand side and his serve has become far more reliable," Zverev explained, emphasizing how the absence of Jannik Sinner and the lingering injury concerns surrounding Carlos Alcaraz open the draw for other contenders.
Zverev believes this creates a perfect environment for a player with confidence and consistency to make a deep run. Aryna Sabalenka, despite a recent dip in performance, was praised for the extra gear she seems to find in the biggest tournaments. "When Sabalenka steps onto a Grand Slam stage, her intensity and focus elevate to a different level," the panelist remarked, invoking the classic adage that "form is temporary, class is permanent." This suggests that Sabalenka’s raw talent could still translate into a title challenge if she finds her rhythm at Flushing Meadows.
Arthur Fils earned a nod after his impressive quarter‑final run in Cincinnati. The panel highlighted his resilience in the face of injuries and the daunting prospect of potentially playing seven best‑of‑five matches. "If he stays healthy, his powerful shot‑making makes him a genuine threat," they said, noting that his Cincinnati performance was a significant step up and could foreshadow a breakthrough at the US Open. Alex Eala was described as an "unbelievable competitor" whose recent improvements, combined with strong support, make her a compelling outsider pick.
The panel admired her attitude and spirit, suggesting that her continued development could see her making a splash on the hard courts of New York. Novak Djokovic was framed as a seasoned champion who, despite a few recent losses and a less‑than‑stellar showing in Cincinnati, possesses a track record at majors that cannot be ignored. While his clay‑court prowess is well documented, the panel emphasized his recent hard‑court success, including a deep run at the Australian Open, and expressed confidence that he could capitalize on the current field to claim another Grand Slam. Coco Gauff was predicted to maintain her hot streak, building on her recent form and previous US Open success.
The panel believes her technical deficiencies are becoming less noticeable, allowing her natural talent to shine through. They anticipate that her confidence and experience will carry her far into the tournament. Lerner Tien was highlighted for his impressive recent form and emotional temperament in five‑set matches, citing his notable victories at the Australian Open as evidence of his capacity to handle pressure on the biggest stages.
Sorana Cirstea, entering what she has described as her final season, was portrayed as a potential Cinderella story. After a strong year, the panel feels she could deliver a memorable performance in what may be her last Grand Slam appearance. Iga Swiatek was praised for her powerful spin and aggressive play that suit the fast, lively hard courts of the US Open.
The panel observed that she appears to have regained her star power in recent weeks, positioning her as a serious contender. Ben Shelton, the American fan favorite, was expected to thrive on home‑court energy. His recent form and the support of the US crowd could provide the extra boost needed to navigate the draw. Marta Kostyuk, after a standout year, was identified as a player on the cusp of a major breakthrough.
The panel believes a Slam victory could be the next logical step in her ascent. Carlos Alcaraz remains the tournament favorite, provided he stays fit.
The panel likened his expected performance to that of past multiple‑Grand Slam champions, noting that once he finds his rhythm, he is likely to dominate. Jessica Pegula was commended for her consistency and ability to capitalize when opponents falter.
Her experience as a former finalist and her steady game make her a formidable opponent capable of seizing opportunities. Ann Lee, an American rising through the rankings, was projected to achieve greater success. Her improving shot repertoire and settling tour life suggest she could make a deep run, potentially even facing top seeds like Sabalenka in the quarter‑finals.
Thiago Tirante was praised for his raw power, including a 120 mph forehand and a 145 mph serve recorded earlier in the season. The panel believes his explosive style could propel him into the top 20 and make him a dark horse at the US Open. Frances Tiafoe was noted for his increased professionalism and off‑court work, which have translated into better on‑court performance. The panel feels his newfound discipline could see him become a surprise contender.
Iva Jovic, though still early in her career, was identified as a future Grand Slam champion. While she may not be ready for a deep run this year, the panel acknowledges that draws can open unexpectedly, giving young talent a chance to shine.
The panel also offered several pairings they believe could produce exciting match‑ups, such as Zverev versus Pegula, Fils versus Madison Keys, Djokovic versus Gauff, and Fils versus Sara Bejlek. They highlighted Fils as a dark horse, drawing parallels to the charisma of Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga, while noting Zverev’s confidence after his recent Grand Slam successes. Overall, the Sky Sports Tennis experts anticipate a highly competitive US Open, with established stars, rising talents, and several dark horses all vying for the title.
The tournament will be broadcast live on Sky Sports starting August 30, with streaming options available on NOW and the Sky Sports app, ensuring fans can follow every match, highlight, and surprise twist as the drama unfolds at Flushing Meadows.