Alcaraz and Sabalenka Open US Open with Wins
Carlos Alcaraz made a successful return from a wrist injury, defeating Roman Safiullin in straight sets at the US Open. Aryna Sabalenka also began her title defense with a victory. Alcaraz, the defending champion, said he felt no pain and is aiming to compete deep into the tournament.
Alcaraz's straight-sets win over world No. 99 Roman Safiullin extended his Grand Slam winning streak to 15 matches, dating back to his 2025 US Open title and this year's Australian Open triumph. The Spaniard had been sidelined since April after injuring his right wrist in Barcelona, forcing him to miss both Roland Garros and Wimbledon. His return comes amid a depleted field, with Jannik Sinner absent and Novak Djokovic eliminated in the first round by Argentina's Mariano Navone.
The day also marked Stan Wawrinka's final Grand Slam appearance; the 41-year-old Swiss, who won the 2016 US Open, fell to Matteo Berrettini in straight sets. Meanwhile, Arthur Fils, fresh off a Cincinnati title, lost to Stefanos Tsitsipas, continuing his struggles at major tournaments.
Alcaraz's healthy return could restore star power to a US Open suddenly missing its top two seeds, potentially sustaining viewer interest and ticket demand. His presence may also shape the tournament's competitive narrative, as fans and sponsors look to him to carry the event's commercial appeal. Sabalenka's pursuit of a third consecutive title could similarly galvanize interest in the women's draw, reinforcing the tournament's global reach.