The Sky Sports Tennis panel has shared their forecasts for the champions and surprise contenders heading into the final Grand Slam of the 2026 season, the US Open. A diverse group of former players, current stars and seasoned analysts—including Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova—offered their insights on who they believe will lift the trophies in New York. Sascha Zverev reflected on his own evolution since clinching his maiden Grand Slam at Roland Garros. He noted that over the past twelve months his game has become markedly more aggressive and proactive, especially when he is positioned deep behind the baseline.
"His serve is incredibly consistent now," Zverev said, referring to his own improvements, and he highlighted the open nature of the draw given the absence of Jannik Sinner and the lingering injury concerns surrounding Carlos Alcaraz. Zverev believes this creates a prime opportunity for a player with confidence and momentum to seize the moment.
Aryna Sabalenka, despite a recent dip in form, was praised for the way she elevates her level at the biggest stages. The panel emphasized that Sabalenka possesses an extra gear that emerges during Grand Slams, combining heightened intensity with razor‑sharp focus.
"Form is temporary, class is permanent," the commentator reminded, underscoring Sabalenka’s pedigree and the belief that she can rediscover her best tennis when it matters most. Arthur Fils earned a nod after his impressive run to the quarter‑finals in Cincinnati. The panel noted that his progression from a promising youngster to a potential Grand Slam contender is significant, especially if he can stay healthy through the grueling best‑of‑five format. Fils has shown he can produce powerful groundstrokes and a solid serve, and his recent form suggests he could be a dark horse if he navigates the draw without injury setbacks.
Alex Eala was highlighted for her rapid development and competitive spirit. Observers praised her improved shot selection, mental toughness, and the supportive environment surrounding her. Eala’s attitude and perseverance make her a player to watch, and the panel expressed genuine excitement about her potential to cause upsets. Novak Djokovic was described as a “great opportunity” despite a few disappointing results in Cincinnati.
The panel pointed out that his record at majors remains stellar, particularly on hard courts, where he reached the Australian Open final and pushed Carlos Alcaraz to the brink. While clay has never been his favorite surface, his overall hard‑court pedigree suggests he could once again make a deep run at Flushing Meadows. Coco Gauff was projected to maintain her hot streak.
The panel cited her recent Cincinnati victory and her 2023 US Open title as evidence that she possesses the confidence and experience to repeat her success. Analysts believe her technical refinements will continue to emerge, reducing any lingering weaknesses and allowing her natural talent to shine. Lerner Tien’s recent form earned him a mention. He has accumulated several wins and demonstrated the emotional resilience required for five‑set battles, a trait he displayed during his strong showing at the Australian Open.
Sorana Cîrstea was portrayed as a potential Cinderella story. After a career‑best season that she hinted might be her final year on tour, the panel feels her experience and renewed motivation could propel her deep into the tournament, possibly making a memorable final Grand Slam appearance.
Iga Świątek was praised for her powerful spin and aggressive play on the lively hard courts of New York. Her recent resurgence in confidence and the way her ball bites the surface suggest she could be a serious threat to any opponent. Ben Shelton, the American crowd‑pleaser, was highlighted for his ability to feed off home‑court energy.
His recent performances indicate he can translate that enthusiasm into wins, especially with the support of the New York fans behind him. Marta Kostyuk, after a strong year on tour, was identified as a player on the cusp of a breakthrough.
The panel believes a Slam title could be the next logical step in her upward trajectory. Carlos Alcaraz remains the favorite, provided he stays fit. The discussion compared his situation to past multiple‑Grand‑Slam champions like Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal, noting that once such players arrive, they often reaffirm their dominance after a match or two.
The consensus is that Alcaraz’s talent and mental fortitude will likely see him through to the later stages. Jessica Pegula’s consistency earned her a spot among the top contenders.
Her ability to capitalize on opponents’ lapses and her history of reaching finals make her a dangerous opponent who can pounce at the right moment. Ann Lee, an emerging American talent, has enjoyed a surprisingly strong season and entered the US Open as a seeded player.
The panel projects continued growth, envisioning her potentially meeting Aryna Sabalenka in the quarter‑finals. Thiago Tirante was described as an explosive hitter, capable of delivering forehands clocked at 120 mph and serves around 145 mph.
His power and excitement make him a candidate for a top‑20 ranking and a possible deep run at the US Open. Frances Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work have been rewarded with improved on‑court results. The panel believes his dedication could translate into a notable performance in New York. Iva Jović, though still early in her career, was labeled a future Grand Slam winner.
While she may be a few years away from a major title, the unpredictable nature of draws means she could surprise everyone. The panel also offered several pairings of favorites and dark horses, such as Zverev with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek. In particular, they highlighted Arthur Fils as a dark‑horse pick, likening his charisma and enthusiasm to that of Gaël Monfils and Jo‑Wilfried Tsonga, especially after his Masters 1000 breakthrough.
Overall, the Sky Sports Tennis experts anticipate a thrilling US Open, with a blend of established champions, rising stars and unexpected contenders all vying for glory. The tournament begins on August 30 and will be streamed contract‑free on NOW and the Sky Sports app, offering fans multiple ways to follow the action live.