Britain celebrated a double triumph at the US Open on Saturday, as Alfie Hewett reclaimed his wheelchair singles crown and Neal Skupski finally lifted the men’s doubles trophy. The day was marked by high drama and emotional moments, underscoring the resilience and determination of both athletes. Hewett, visibly moved, broke down in tears after dispatching Japan’s rising star Tokito Oda with a convincing 6-0, 7-6 (7-5) victory. The win not only denied the 20‑year‑old Oda a chance to complete a calendar Grand Slam, but also represented a personal redemption for Hewett, who had fallen short against Oda in the finals of both the French Open and Wimbledon earlier in the season.
Reflecting on his journey, the 28‑year‑old Brit explained, “It’s taken a lot of hard work, a lot of soul‑searching at times, a lot of reflecting. The Wimbledon loss was a tough one to swallow. I definitely came away from that match with a lot of regret, took some time off and had a hard, long look in the mirror about who I wanted to be on the tennis court and how I wanted to show up.” He went on to say, “Today I didn’t care about the outcome. It was about being a little bit more like ‘Alfie’ and showing the fight, the grit and the desire to go out and play a bit more fearless.
I think the performance showed that.” This victory marked Hewett’s fifth US Open singles title, though it was his first since 2023. The triumph complemented the doubles gold he secured alongside Gordon Reid just a day earlier, further cementing his status as one of the sport’s most decorated wheelchair players.
In the men’s doubles final, Neal Skupski partnered with American Christian Harrison to overcome the German pair of Kevin Krawietz and Tim Puetz in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6 (8-6). The win was especially sweet for Skupski, who had endured two previous runner‑up finishes at Flushing Meadows—once with Dutch partner Wesley Koolhof in 2022 and again with fellow Brit Joe Salisbury the year before. “I’m still in shock,” Skupski, 36, admitted. “Losing twice and having match points last year was a tough part of my career, but it’s amazing what a year does in tennis.
This moment feels so special.” Harrison, who was only in his second tournament with Skupski after their Australian Open triumph in January, expressed disbelief at the rapid success. “It’s been a great year.
To get two titles like this, I’m speechless – and to do it at home,” he said, referring to the supportive atmosphere of the New York crowd. Their partnership has already made history.
By winning both the Australian Open and Wimbledon in the same calendar year, Skupski and Harrison became the fourth men’s doubles team since the Australian Open switched to hard courts in 1988 to claim two majors in a single season. Their chemistry on court, aggressive net play, and complementary baseline strengths have drawn praise from analysts and fans alike. The ceremony was overseen by former doubles champions Jamie Murray and his American partner Bruno Soares, who presented the trophies on the tenth anniversary of their own US Open victory.
Their presence highlighted the continuity of excellence in doubles competition and the deep ties between British and American tennis communities. Beyond the headline matches, the US Open weekend featured a host of other storylines.
Alexander Zverev issued a bold declaration, asserting that he currently believes himself to be the world’s best player, a claim that added extra intrigue to his impending final against American rising star Ben Shelton. Meanwhile, Elena Rybakina solidified her position at world number one after defeating two‑time champion Aryna Sabalenka, showcasing the depth of talent across both the men’s and women’s draws.
For viewers in the United Kingdom, the tournament is being broadcast live on Sky Sports from August 30, with streaming options available on NOW and the Sky Sports app without the need for a long‑term contract. Tennis enthusiasts can also look forward to the upcoming Laver Cup, scheduled to take place at The O2 in London from September 25‑27, where the best of Europe and the rest of the world will clash in a festive, team‑based format. Overall, Saturday’s results underscored a narrative of perseverance and redemption for British tennis.
Hewett’s emotional comeback and Skupski’s long‑awaited triumph illustrate how dedication, introspection, and a willingness to evolve can ultimately lead to glory on the sport’s biggest stages. The celebrations in New York echoed far beyond Flushing Meadows, resonating with fans back home who have followed these athletes’ journeys with unwavering support.