The Sky Sports Tennis panel has weighed in on who they believe will triumph at the US Open, the final Grand Slam of the 2026 calendar, and which players could surprise the field. A mix of former champions, rising stars and seasoned veterans offered their insights, highlighting recent form, injury recoveries and the unique dynamics of this year’s draw. Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady and the legendary Martina Navratilova were among the personalities who contributed their selections.
Their comments ranged from tactical assessments to broader reflections on each player’s mental resilience. Sascha Zverev explained that his game has taken a noticeable step forward since his breakthrough at Roland Garros.
Over the past twelve months he has become more aggressive, often taking the ball early and dictating play from the baseline. He praised his own serve for its consistency and noted that the draw feels more open without Jannik Sinner and with Carlos Alcaraz still nursing a long‑term injury. Zverev believes this creates an opportunity for him to capitalize on his newfound confidence. Aryna Sabalenka, despite a recent dip in results, was described by the panel as a player who always elevates her level at the biggest events.
When the stakes are highest, she adds an extra gear to her game and sharpens her focus. The panel echoed the old adage that "form is temporary, class is permanent," suggesting Sabalenka’s pedigree will likely surface in New York. Arthur Fils was highlighted for his impressive run to the Cincinnati quarter‑finals, a performance that the panel felt signaled a major step forward. Although he has struggled with injuries, the experts argued that if he can stay healthy he possesses the talent to endure the grueling best‑of‑five format of a Grand Slam.
Alex Eala received praise for her rapid improvement and competitive spirit. The panel admired her attitude and the support system surrounding her, calling her a compelling outsider pick who could make a splash on the big stage. Novak Djokovic was framed as a seasoned contender who, despite a few recent setbacks in Cincinnati, remains a serious threat on hard courts.
The panel pointed out his strong record at majors, noting that his most recent hard‑court Grand Slam final at the Australian Open demonstrated his ability to challenge the next generation, even if clay is not his favorite surface. Coco Gauff was expected to maintain her hot streak, with the panel emphasizing her consistency and the momentum she built after winning Cincinnati and the 2023 US Open. They suggested that technical flaws that have occasionally been highlighted will become less noticeable as she continues to mature.
Lerner Tien was praised for his emotional composure in five‑set battles and his recent string of victories, including notable wins at the Australian Open. His temperament, the panel argued, makes him well‑suited to the mental demands of a Slam.
Sorana Cirstea was portrayed as a potential Cinderella story. After a year she described as her best yet, she may be playing her final major, and the panel believes that narrative could fuel a deep run.
Iga Swiatek’s game was described as particularly effective on the fast, lively hard courts of Flushing Meadows. Her heavy spin and aggressive baseline play have caused damage to opponents, and the panel feels she has rediscovered her star power in recent weeks. Ben Shelton, the home‑grown American, was noted for feeding off the energy of the New York crowd.
His recent form suggests he could translate that enthusiasm into a strong showing. Marta Kostyuk, after a breakout season, was identified as a player on the cusp of a Slam breakthrough.
The panel believes her confidence is rising and a deep run at the US Open could be the next logical step. Carlos Alcaraz, widely regarded as the tournament favorite, was discussed in terms of his health. If he remains fit, the panel expects him to dominate, comparing his consistency to that of past multiple‑Grand‑Slam champions such as Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal. Jessica Pegula’s consistency and experience were highlighted.
The panel noted that she often capitalizes when higher‑ranked opponents falter, positioning herself as a dangerous contender in any round. Ann Lee, an American rising through the rankings, was praised for her solid shot‑making and adaptability on tour.
The panel projects continued growth and even speculated a potential quarter‑final clash with Sabalenka. Thiago Tirante was celebrated for his raw power, including a 120 mph forehand and a serve touching 145 mph. The panel believes his explosive style could see him break into the top twenty soon.
Frances Tiafoe’s increased professionalism and off‑court work were credited with improving his on‑court results. The panel sees him as a player capable of making a deep run if his form continues. Iva Jovic was identified as a future Grand Slam champion.
While she may be a few years away from a breakthrough, the panel reminded listeners that draws can open unexpectedly. The panel also offered several doubles pairings as speculative match‑ups: Zverev with Pegula, Fils with Madison Keys, Djokovic with Gauff, and Fils with Sara Bejlek. These imagined pairings underscored the excitement surrounding the tournament’s potential storylines.
In summary, the Sky Sports Tennis experts painted a vivid picture of a US Open that is both wide open and rich with narrative possibilities. From seasoned champions looking to add another title to emerging talents eager to announce themselves on the biggest stage, the panel’s predictions reflect a blend of statistical analysis, recent performance trends and the intangible spark that defines Grand Slam tennis. The tournament begins on August 30, and fans can follow the action live on Sky Sports, stream contract‑free via NOW, or catch highlights on the Sky Sports app.