The Sky Sports Tennis panel has shared its predictions for the upcoming US Open, the final Grand Slam of the 2026 calendar. A mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars—including Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova—have all put forward their choices for who they believe will triumph in New York.
Sascha Zverev: Zverev reflected on his evolution since clinching his first major title at Roland Garros. Over the past twelve months he has become noticeably more aggressive, often taking the ball early from deep in the court. His serve has reached a new level of consistency, and he sees the draw as more open this year.
With Jannik Sinner absent and Carlos Alcaraz returning from a lengthy injury lay‑off, Zverev feels confident that he can capitalize on the opportunity. Aryna Sabalenka: Although Sabalenka’s recent form has been uneven, the panelist emphasized that when she reaches a Grand Slam she typically elevates her game. Her intensity, focus and the sheer class that comes with experience tend to shine through on the biggest stages. As the old tennis adage goes, "form is temporary, class is permanent," and Sabalenka embodies that sentiment.
Arthur Fils: Fils was selected after his impressive run to the Cincinnati quarter‑finals. Winning that event would have been a massive leap forward, especially considering his injury history.
The panelist warned that a potential seven‑match, best‑of‑five‑set campaign at the US Open will test his durability, but his talent and shot‑making ability make him a legitimate contender. Alex Eala: Eala impressed the panel with her rapid improvement and competitive spirit.
Her recent performances have shown a growing confidence, and she benefits from strong support off the court. The commentator praised her attitude and believes she could surprise many opponents despite being an outsider. Novak Djokovic: Djokovic is viewed as a strong favorite despite a couple of recent losses and a less‑than‑stellar showing in Cincinnati.
The panelist noted that his record at majors remains exceptional, especially on hard courts. While clay has never been his preferred surface, his run to the Australian Open final and a hard‑court showdown with Carlos Alcaraz suggest he still has the fire to go all the way at Flushing Meadows. Coco Gauff: Gauff is expected to maintain her hot streak.
After a solid performance in Cincinnati and a US Open title in 2023, the panel believes she has the momentum and the technical adjustments needed to contend for another championship. Lerner Tien: Tien’s recent form has been impressive, with numerous match wins and a calm temperament suited to the rigors of five‑set tennis. His experience at the Australian Open, where he secured notable victories, adds to his confidence heading into the US Open. Sorana Cirstea: Cirstea is enjoying what she describes as her best season yet, and she hinted that it could be her final year on tour.
The narrative of a seasoned player making a Cinderella run in her last major adds a compelling storyline to the tournament. Iga Swiatek: Swiatek’s game is thriving on the fast, lively hard courts of New York. Her heavy topspin and aggressive baseline play cause significant damage, and recent weeks have seen her reclaim some of her star power after a brief dip.
Ben Shelton: The American youngster is riding a wave of confidence at home. The support of the home crowd could provide the extra boost he needs to make a deep run. Marta Kostyuk: Kostyuk has enjoyed a breakout year and many believe a Slam title could be the next logical step in her progression.
Carlos Alcaraz: Alcaraz enters the tournament as the clear favorite, provided he stays fit. Historically, multiple‑time Grand Slam champions such as Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal have demonstrated that once they’re on the court, they quickly re‑establish their dominance. The panel expects Alcaraz to follow a similar pattern. Jessica Pegula: Pegula’s consistency makes her a dangerous opponent.
If rivals falter at critical moments, she is poised to seize the initiative. Her experience as a former finalist adds to her credibility as a potential champion. Ann Lee: Lee has enjoyed a surprisingly strong season, climbing the rankings and earning a seeded position at the US Open.
Her solid shot‑making and growing comfort on tour suggest she could make a splash, perhaps even reaching the quarter‑finals. Thiago Tirante: Tirante is praised for his raw power, having recorded a 120 mph forehand and a serve touching 145 mph earlier this year. His explosive style makes him a candidate for a top‑20 ranking and a possible deep run at the tournament. Frances Tiafoe: Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work have paid dividends.
With his recent form improving, he could be a dark horse worth watching. Iva Jovic: The young Serbian talent is projected to become a future Grand Slam champion. While she may be a few years away from a title, the panel acknowledges that the draw can open up in unexpected ways. Additional pairings mentioned by the panel include Zverev with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek.
One commentator highlighted Fils as a dark‑horse pick, noting his charisma and enthusiasm reminiscent of Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga. Another noted Zverev’s confidence after his recent Grand Slam successes, while also praising Iga Swiatek’s current form.
The US Open will be broadcast live on Sky Sports beginning August 30, with streaming available contract‑free via NOW and the Sky Sports app. Fans can also look forward to related tennis events such as the Laver Cup at The O2 in London later in September.