The Sky Sports Tennis panel has shared their picks for the champions and surprise contenders heading into the final Grand Slam of the 2026 calendar, the US Open. A mix of former stars, rising talents and seasoned veterans offered their insights, highlighting form, fitness and recent performances as key factors in their selections. Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova were among the personalities who contributed their verdicts.

Each panelist explained why they believed a particular player could lift the trophy or cause an upset, often referencing the unique circumstances of this year’s tournament. **Sascha Zverev** Zverev noted that his game has taken a significant step forward since his breakthrough at Roland Garros.

Over the past twelve months he has become more aggressive, often taking the ball early from the baseline. His serve, he said, has reached a new level of consistency.

With Jannik Sinner absent and Carlos Alcaraz still recovering from a lengthy injury lay‑off, Zverev feels the draw is more open than usual, giving him confidence to make a deep run. **Aryna Sabalenka** Sabalenka admitted she has not been at her best in recent weeks, but the panelist emphasized that a player of her calibre tends to elevate her game at the biggest events. He reminded listeners of the old adage, “Form is temporary, class is permanent,” suggesting that Sabalenka’s experience and mental toughness could see her surge when it matters most.

**Arthur Fils** Fils earned a nod after his impressive quarter‑final performance in Cincinnati. The panelist warned that the Frenchman still carries injury concerns and may have to endure up to seven best‑of‑five matches, but praised his powerful shot‑making and the potential to surprise if he stays healthy. **Alex Eala** Eala was described as an "unbelievable competitor" whose rapid improvement and positive attitude make her a joy to watch.

The commentator, speaking as an outsider, expressed genuine enthusiasm for her pick, noting that her recent form suggests she could make a splash on the New York courts. **Novak Djokovic** Despite a couple of recent losses and a less‑than‑stellar showing in Cincinnati, the panelist argued that Djokovic’s track record at majors remains unparalleled. He pointed out that Djokovic reached the Australian Open final on hard courts and only faltered on clay, a surface he historically dislikes. The belief is that Djokovic can capitalize on the open field and go all the way.

**Coco Gauff** Gauff was highlighted as a player likely to continue her hot streak. The panelist expects her to build on the momentum from her Cincinnati win and her 2023 US Open title, suggesting that technical adjustments she has been working on will become less noticeable as her game matures. **Lerner Tien** Tien’s recent form, including several match wins and strong showings at the Australian Open, earned him a spot on the list. The commentator praised his emotional resilience in five‑set battles, a quality that could serve him well in the grueling US Open schedule.

**Sorana Cirstea** Cirstea was framed as a potential Cinderella story. After a career‑best season that she has hinted may be her final year on tour, the panelist believes the US Open could provide a fairy‑tale ending for the Romanian veteran. **Iga Swiatek** Swiatek’s heavy topspin and aggressive play are well suited to the fast, lively hard courts of Flushing Meadows. The panelist noted that she appears to have regained some of the star power that made her dominant on clay, making her a serious threat.

**Ben Shelton** The American’s strong recent performances, combined with the boost of a home crowd, earned him a nod. The commentator expects Shelton to feed off the energy of the New York fans and push deep into the draw.

**Marta Kostyuk** Kostyuk has enjoyed a breakout year, and the panelist believes a Grand Slam title could be the next logical step in her development. **Carlos Alcaraz** Alcaraz is widely regarded as the tournament favourite, provided he remains fit. The panelist compared his consistency to that of multi‑Grand Slam champions like Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, asserting that once he’s on court he will look like his usual best‑in‑the‑world self.

**Jessica Pegula** Pegula’s consistency and ability to capitalize when opponents falter were highlighted. Having reached a major final before, she is seen as a player who can seize opportunities and make a deep run. **Ann Lee** Lee’s steady rise in the rankings and recent seeding at the US Open earned her a mention. The commentator predicts larger achievements ahead, even envisioning a quarter‑final clash with Sabalenka.

**Thiago Tirante** Tirante’s raw power—evidenced by a 120 mph forehand and a 145 mph serve—makes him an exciting prospect. The panelist believes he is on the cusp of breaking into the top‑20 and could cause trouble for higher‑ranked opponents. **Frances Tiafoe** Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work have translated into improved on‑court results. The commentator feels he now has the stamina to go the distance in a Grand Slam.

**Iva Jovic** Jovic was identified as a future Grand Slam champion. While she may be a bit early for a deep US Open run, the panelist cautioned that draws can open unexpectedly, giving her a chance to surprise. **Pairings and Doubles Speculation** The panel also offered some speculative pairings for mixed and doubles action, such as Zverev with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek.

These suggestions underline the panel’s belief that chemistry and complementary styles could produce exciting results. Overall, the Sky Sports Tennis experts agree that the 2026 US Open promises a blend of established champions seeking to add another title to their legacies and hungry newcomers eager to make their mark. With several top players dealing with injuries or form fluctuations, the field appears more open than in recent years, setting the stage for potential upsets and breakthrough performances.

The tournament begins on August 30 and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with streaming options available via NOW and the Sky Sports app for viewers who prefer contract‑free access.