The Sky Sports Tennis panel has shared their predictions for the upcoming US Open, the final Grand Slam of the 2026 calendar. A mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars such as Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova have all voiced their choices for who they believe will lift the trophy in New York. Sascha Zverev: The German’s game has taken a noticeable step forward since his breakthrough at Roland Garros. Over the past twelve months he has become far more aggressive, often dictating play from the back of the court and taking the ball early.
His serve has settled into a reliable weapon, and with Jannik Sinner absent and Carlos Alcaraz still recovering from a lengthy injury lay‑off, Zverev feels the draw is wide open. He believes his confidence is at a peak and that he can capitalize on the opportunities that lie ahead. Aryna Sabalenka: Although her recent form has been uneven, Sabalenka’s panelists stress that she possesses a class that shines through at the biggest events. When the stakes are highest she tends to switch into a higher gear, displaying greater intensity, focus and a willingness to fight for every point.
As the old adage goes, "form is temporary, class is permanent," and the Belarussian’s pedigree suggests she could still make a deep run despite a dip in her results. Arthur Fils: Fils earned a spot on the panel’s list after reaching the quarter‑finals in Cincinnati. The French teenager’s progression to a title there marked a significant leap, especially considering the injuries that have hampered his schedule. The panel notes that a potential seven‑match, best‑of‑five journey at the US Open will test his durability, but his powerful groundstrokes and growing confidence make him a genuine dark‑horse contender.
Alex Eala: The Filipino prodigy has impressed with rapid improvement and an unshakeable fighting spirit. Her recent performances have shown a more rounded game, and the support she receives from her team has helped her develop a mature attitude on court.
As an outsider, the panel is delighted to see her receive a nod, believing her tenacity could produce a surprise run. Novak Djokovic: Even after a couple of disappointing results in Cincinnati, the Serbian’s record at majors remains formidable.
While he has never been a clay specialist, his recent hard‑court résumé includes a runner‑up finish at the Australian Open, where he pushed Carlos Alcaraz to a tight match. The panel believes that, if he can find his rhythm, Djokovic has the experience and mental toughness to go all the way in New York. Coco Gauff: The American teenager continues her hot streak, having captured the Cincinnati title and the 2023 US Open. The panel expects her to maintain her momentum, noting that the technical flaws that have occasionally been highlighted are becoming less noticeable as she refines her game.
Gauff’s ability to feed off the energy of the home crowd gives her an additional edge. Lerner Tien: The young Australian has been in excellent form, racking up victories and demonstrating the mental resilience required for five‑set tennis. His recent success at the Australian Open, where he secured several impressive wins, suggests he can handle the pressure of a Grand Slam environment.
Sorana Cirstea: After a standout year that the player herself described as possibly her final season, Cirstea is seen as a potential Cinderella story. Her consistency and experience could see her make a deep run, especially if she capitalises on the draw opening up. Iga Swiatek: Swiatek’s heavy topspin and aggressive baseline play are well‑suited to the fast, lively hard courts of Flushing Meadows.
Over the past few weeks she has reclaimed much of the confidence that made her a dominant force on clay, and the panel feels her ball now carries enough bite to trouble any opponent. Ben Shelton: The home‑grown American is thriving in front of a supportive crowd.
His powerful serve and aggressive forehand have been effective throughout the summer swing, and the panel believes he will feed off the atmosphere to push deeper into the tournament. Marta Kostyuk: The Belarusian has enjoyed a breakthrough season, and many observers feel a Grand Slam title could be the next logical step. Her solid baseline game and growing composure under pressure make her a player to watch. Carlos Alcaraz: Undoubtedly the favourite when fully fit, Alcaraz’s talent is unquestioned.
The panel stresses that his success hinges on staying healthy; if he can avoid setbacks, his all‑court versatility and competitive fire should see him contend for the championship. Jessica Pegula: Pegula’s consistency has been a hallmark of her recent performances. She excels when opponents falter, and her experience as a former finalist equips her to seize any opening. The panel predicts she will be in a strong position to challenge for the title.
Ann Lee: The American’s season has been surprisingly strong, with a rise in the rankings and a seeded position at the US Open. Her elegant shot‑making and growing comfort on tour suggest she could surprise higher‑ranked players, perhaps even meeting Aryna Sabalenka in the later rounds. Thiago Tirante: Known for his raw power, Tirante has been clocked delivering forehands at 120 mph and serves approaching 145 mph. The panel believes his explosive style and youthful enthusiasm could see him break into the top‑20 and make an impact at the US Open.
Frances Tiafoe: Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work have translated into better on‑court results. With his fitness improving and a more disciplined approach, he could become a dark‑horse candidate capable of pulling off an upset. Iva Jovic: Though still early in her career, Jovic is regarded as a future Grand Slam champion.
The panel acknowledges that she may be a bit premature for a deep US Open run, yet they note that draws can open unexpectedly, offering her a chance to make a statement. Pairings and additional notes: The panel also highlighted several intriguing doubles and mixed‑team possibilities, such as Zverev paired with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek. They praised Fils for his charisma, likening him to Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga, and noted Zverev’s confidence after a successful French Open and Wimbledon run.
The panel concluded that the US Open, broadcast live on Sky Sports from August 30, promises a blend of established champions and hungry newcomers, making it one of the most compelling Grand Slam events of the year.