McCartney Kessler faces Magda Linette today in an anticipated first-round matchup at the 2025 U.S. Open, set to take place on Sunday at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center on Court 11. As tennis enthusiasts and fans brace for this exciting clash, let’s dive into the details surrounding these two talented players, their current form, and where to catch the action live.
Match Overview
Date: Sunday, August 24, 2025
Start Time: 11:00 AM Eastern
Venue: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, Flushing Meadows, NY
Court: Court 11
TV Coverage: ESPN2 (limited coverage)
Streaming: ESPN+ (dedicated stream)
Player Profiles
McCartney Kessler
Ranked No. 41, Kessler has been riding a wave of momentum as she enters the main draw of the U.S. Open. At just 26 years old, she has shown remarkable improvement and has displayed her best tennis this season. Kessler recently captured her second WTA title of the year at the Nottingham tournament, showcasing not only her talent but also her ability to compete at a high level. Following Nottingham, she made it to the fourth round of the Canadian Open, which further underlines her current form and confidence.
In her path to the U.S. Open, Kessler’s standout moment came with a victory over Mirra Andreeva in the Round of 32, proving she can handle the pressure of match play against rising stars in women’s tennis.
Magda Linette
On the other hand, Magda Linette comes into this matchup with equally impressive credentials. Linette, who also had a successful run at Nottingham, reaching the semifinals after a notable victory against Clara Tauson, is no stranger to competitive settings. Additionally, her recent performance at the Cincinnati tournament, where she reached the Round of 16 by defeating renowned player Jessica Pegula, demonstrates her capability on the court.
Despite her lower ranking compared to Kessler, Linette’s experience and competitive edge make her a powerful opponent, known for her resilience and tactical gameplay. The world has not underestimated Linette, and both players bring a compelling narrative to this first-round matchup.
Head-to-Head Record
As their first face-off at the 2025 Brisbane International highlights, Kessler leads with a match record of 1–0 against Linette. Their previous meeting concluded with a solid victory for Kessler, winning 6-4, 6-4. This head-to-head advantage could indeed provide Kessler with a psychological edge heading into their rematch.
Predictions
Considering Kessler’s recent performances, confidence levels, and their prior meeting, many analysts lean toward a prediction favoring Kessler in two tightly contested sets. Her recent success on grass courts coupled with a direct competitive history suggests that she may control the baseline and hold serve effectively. However, it’s essential not to overlook Linette’s grit and experience, which are formidable qualities in high-stakes matches.
Kessler’s ability to maintain her momentum from recent tournaments will be critical. If she can replicate her previous performances and assert her game plan, she has a strong chance of advancing to the next round. Linette, while coming in as the underdog, has the potential to turn the tables if she effectively counters Kessler’s strategy and executes her game plan with precision.
How to Watch the Match
For fans eager to witness this engaging matchup, the Kessler vs. Linette match is scheduled to start at approximately 11:00 AM Eastern. While ESPN2 may provide some limited coverage of the match within its morning whiparound segment, fans looking to catch every moment of the action are encouraged to stream the match. ESPN+ offers a dedicated stream for the day’s action on Court 11, where tennis aficionados can watch Kessler and Linette battle it out.
A standalone ESPN+ subscription costs $11.99/month, which not only allows viewers access to this match but also an array of other matches throughout the tournament. Given the significance of the U.S. Open, investing in a subscription may prove worthwhile for avid tennis fans.
Conclusion
As McCartney Kessler and Magda Linette gear up to face off, this match embodies the spirit of the U.S. Open—a blend of rising talent and seasoned experience. With Kessler coming in with strong confidence from a successful season and Linette’s undoubted competitive nature, tennis enthusiasts can expect an enthralling contest. Whether you choose to tune in through ESPN2 or catch the dedicated stream on ESPN+, this match promises to deliver excitement and drama, befitting the grand stage of one of tennis’s most prestigious tournaments.
So be sure to mark your calendars and set your alarms; the showdown between Kessler and Linette at the U.S. Open could be the catalyst for a memorable tournament for both players.
