Britain celebrated a remarkable double triumph at the US Open on Saturday, as Alfie Hewett reclaimed his wheelchair singles crown and Neal Skupski finally captured the men’s doubles title. Hewett’s emotional victory over Japan’s rising star Tokito Oda, a 20‑year‑old who had been on the brink of completing a calendar Grand Slam, was marked by a 6‑0, 7‑6 (7‑5) win that left him in tears. The British champion reflected on the journey that led him back to the top, describing it as a period of intense hard work, deep self‑examination, and a renewed commitment to playing with fearlessness and grit.
He explained, "The Wimbledon loss was a tough pill to swallow. I took some time off, looked hard at myself in the mirror, and decided I wanted to show up on court as a more authentic version of Alfie—fighting, gritty, and unafraid." His performance, he believes, demonstrated that new mindset.
This victory marks Hewett’s fifth US Open singles title, though it is his first since 2023, and it arrives just a day after he and long‑time partner Gordon Reid lifted the wheelchair doubles trophy. The back‑to‑back success underscores Hewett’s dominance in wheelchair tennis and his ability to rebound from setbacks with renewed vigor.
In the men’s doubles final, Skupski teamed with American partner Christian Harrison to defeat 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 previously finished as runner‑up at Flushing Meadows twice—once with Dutch player Wesley Koolhof in 2022 and again with fellow Briton Joe Salisbury last year. "I’m still in shock," the 36‑year‑old said after the match.
"Losing twice and even having match points last year was a painful chapter, but tennis is a sport where a single year can change everything. This moment feels incredibly special." Harrison, who was only in his second tournament with Skupski after their Australian Open triumph in January, expressed disbelief at their rapid success.
"It’s been a great year," he said. "To win two titles like this, I’m speechless—especially when one comes on home soil." Their partnership has already made history: by adding a Wimbledon title to their Australian Open victory, they became only the fourth men’s doubles team since the Australian Open switched to hard courts in 1988 to claim both majors in the same calendar year. The broader US Open coverage featured several notable storylines.
Sky Sports announced a three‑year extension of its broadcast agreement, guaranteeing US Open coverage through the end of 2030. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic is set to return to the ATP China Open after an eleven‑year hiatus, a move highlighted in Sky Sports’ programming slate. Other headlines included Alexander Zverev’s confident claim that he is currently the world’s best player, his subsequent victory over Ben Shelton in the men’s final, and a detailed schedule of matches for the tournament’s final Grand Slam edition of 2026 at Flushing Meadows. Trophies were presented by former doubles champions Jamie Murray and his former partner Bruno Soares, marking the 10th anniversary of their own US Open win.
Their presence added a sense of continuity and celebration of British tennis heritage to the ceremony. The US Open continues to be broadcast live on Sky Sports from August 30, with streaming options available on NOW and the Sky Sports app without a contract. Fans can also catch the upcoming Laver Cup at The O2 in London from September 25‑27, also shown on Sky Sports. Overall, the weekend showcased the resilience and talent of British players on the world stage.
Hewett’s emotional comeback and Skupski’s long‑awaited triumph illustrate the depth of dedication required to succeed at the highest levels of tennis, whether in wheelchair or able‑bodied competition. Their victories not only add to their personal legacies but also inspire a new generation of athletes who see that perseverance, self‑reflection, and a willingness to evolve can ultimately lead to championship glory.