Alcaraz and Djokovic Lead US Open Field as Sinner Withdraws
The US Open begins Saturday with a record $108 million purse, including $5.5 million for each singles champion. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is absent, leaving Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic, and Ben Shelton as key contenders. Alcaraz seeks a second straight title, while Djokovic chases a 25th Grand Slam.
The tournament's record $108 million purse reflects the sport's continued commercial growth, with singles champions earning $5.5 million. Sinner's withdrawal removes the top seed and reshapes the men's bracket, elevating the prospects of Alcaraz, Djokovic, and Zverev. Alcaraz faces a notable hurdle, as no man since 1990 has won the US Open without playing a lead-up event in Canada or Cincinnati—he missed both with injury. Djokovic, at 39, has dealt with heat-related issues during practice, adding uncertainty to his campaign.
On the women's side, Sabalenka enters as the favorite despite early exits at both warm-up tournaments. Her projected round-of-16 matchup against Diana Shnaider carries extra weight, as Shnaider defeated her at the French Open quarterfinal earlier this year. The women's field also features Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek within striking distance of the top odds.
This tournament could shape public conversation around tennis for months, particularly if Shelton ends America's 23-year men's singles drought—a result that may boost domestic viewership and youth participation. Djokovic's pursuit of a record 25th Grand Slam also carries cultural weight, potentially cementing his legacy for casual sports fans. The absence of Sinner may diminish some international interest, but the prize money increase signals the sport's financial health, which could influence how future tournaments are marketed and how players negotiate their schedules.