The Sky Sports Tennis panel have shared their predictions for the upcoming US Open, the final Grand Slam of the 2026 season, naming both their top picks and a handful of dark horses they believe could make a splash. Among the pundits offering their insights are former British great Tim Henman, former British champion Laura Robson, American rising star Ryan Harrison, British veteran Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova, each of whom has put forward a shortlist of players they think will excel in New York.

Sascha Zverev, fresh off a breakthrough year that saw him claim his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros, spoke about the evolution of his game over the past twelve months. He highlighted a noticeable increase in aggression and a willingness to dictate play from the back of the court.

"His serve is now remarkably consistent," Zverev noted, adding that the draw feels more open this year because Jannik Sinner is absent and Carlos Alcaraz is returning from a lengthy injury lay‑off. Zverev believes this creates an opportunity for players who can seize the momentum early.

Aryna Sabalenka, despite a recent dip in form, was praised for the extra gear she seems to find when she steps onto a Grand Slam stage. The panelist emphasized that Sabalenka’s intensity, focus and mental toughness often rise to a higher level at the biggest events, echoing the old adage that "form is temporary, class is permanent." This suggests that even if she has struggled in smaller tournaments, she could still be a serious contender in New York. Arthur Fils, who impressed by reaching the quarter‑finals in Cincinnati, was singled out as a potential dark horse. The panelist argued that moving from a quarter‑final finish to a title run would be a massive leap, especially given Fils’ recent injury history.

If he can stay healthy enough to endure up to seven best‑of‑five matches, his powerful shot‑making could carry him deep into the tournament. Alex Eala received commendation for her rapid improvement and competitive spirit. The commentator highlighted her supportive environment and positive attitude, describing her as a joy to watch and a promising outsider pick for the US Open.

Novak Djokovic was described as a "great opportunity" despite a couple of recent losses and a less‑than‑stellar showing in Cincinnati. The analyst pointed out that Djokovic’s track record at majors remains impressive, noting that while clay has never been his favorite surface, his recent hard‑court performance – reaching the Australian Open final and pushing Carlos Alcaraz to a set – indicates he still has the capacity to go all the way in New York. Coco Gauff was expected to maintain her hot streak, with the panelist confident that her form will continue throughout the tournament.

Lerner Tien was praised for his recent run of victories and his mental resilience in five‑set battles, attributes that helped him achieve notable wins at the Australian Open. Sorana Cîrstea was framed as a possible Cinderella story.

After a strong season that she described as possibly her final one, the panelist believes a deep run at the US Open could be a fitting climax to her career. Iga Świątek was lauded for her recent resurgence, with her heavy spin and aggressive shot‑making well‑suited to the lively hard courts of Flushing Meadows. The commentator feels she has reclaimed some of the star power that made her a dominant force earlier in the year.

Ben Shelton, the American crowd‑pleaser, was highlighted for his ability to feed off the energy of the home supporters, a factor that could give him an edge against more seasoned opponents. Marta Kostyuk was recognized for a breakout year and the panelist suggested that a Slam title could be the next logical step in her upward trajectory. Carlos Alcaraz remains the tournament favorite, provided he stays fit.

The analyst compared his expected performance to that of past multiple‑Grand‑Slam champions such as Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, suggesting that once he finds his rhythm, he will likely dominate the event. Jessica Pegula was described as a consistent threat who can capitalize on any opponent’s lapse in concentration. Having reached a final before, her steady play makes her a dangerous contender in the later stages.

Ann Lee, an American rising through the rankings, was praised for her pleasant shot selection and steady adaptation to tour life. The panelist predicts she could achieve bigger results, even envisioning a quarter‑final clash with Aryna Sabalenka.

Thiago Tirante was celebrated for his raw power, including a 120 mph forehand and a 145 mph serve recorded earlier in the season. The commentator believes his explosive style could see him break into the top twenty soon. Frances Tiafoe was noted for his increased professionalism and off‑court work ethic, which have begun to translate into stronger on‑court performances. The panelist feels he could be a dark horse if he maintains his form.

Iva Jovic, a young talent, was earmarked as a future Grand Slam champion. While she may be a bit early for a deep US Open run, the unpredictability of the draw could open a pathway for her.

The panel also offered several pairings of potential doubles or mixed‑doubles success, such as Sascha Zverev with Jessica Pegula, Arthur Fils with Madison Keys, Novak Djokovic with Coco Gauff, and Arthur Fils with Sara Bejlek. One commentator described Fils as a "dark horse" reminiscent of Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga due to his charisma and enthusiasm. In summary, the Sky Sports Tennis experts anticipate a highly competitive US Open with a mix of established champions, emerging talents, and surprising dark horses. While Alcaraz is the clear favorite if he remains healthy, players like Zverev, Sabalenka, Fils, Gauff, and Pegula all have realistic chances to make deep runs.

The tournament promises drama, high‑quality tennis, and the potential for memorable upsets as the season’s final Grand Slam unfolds from August 30 onward. Viewers can stream the matches contract‑free on NOW or via the Sky Sports app, and additional coverage, highlights and analysis will be available throughout the event.