The U.S. Open is set to introduce an exciting twist in its 2025 schedule – three days of first-round action beginning Sunday, August 24. This change allows for a more dispersed lineup of matches, significantly enhancing the viewing experience for fans. The first-day lineup features some of the biggest names in tennis, including World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka, 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic, and 2021 wild card champion Emma Raducanu.
Key Matches on Day One
As the tournament opens under the bright lights of the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, several matchups stand out that are worth watching.
Ben Shelton (6) vs. Ignacio Buse (Q)
Kicking off Arthur Ashe Stadium at noon ET, Ben Shelton aims to leverage his recent momentum from winning his first ATP Masters 1000 title in Toronto. The No. 6 seed faces Ignacio Buse, a Peruvian qualifier looking to seize the opportunity. Shelton’s explosive serve and aggressive playstyle will be tested against Buse, who has nothing to lose in this major debut.
Aryna Sabalenka (1) vs. Rebeka Masarova
Next in Arthur Ashe is Aryna Sabalenka, the reigning champion and women’s world No. 1. Despite her strong performance this season, where she’s won 50 of 60 matches, Sabalenka feels the pressure from Iga Świątek, who is breathing down her neck in the rankings. Rebeka Masarova may provide a challenge, having taken Sabalenka to a tiebreak in prior encounters, but expect the top seed to advance.
Novak Djokovic (7) vs. Learner Tien
This matchup presents a compelling contrast between experience and youth. Djokovic, at 38, is focused on adding to his 24 Grand Slam titles, while 19-year-old Learner Tien has already made waves by defeating four top-10 players this year. This clash promises to be a battle of tactical skills, showcasing Djokovic’s ability to control the game against a rising star.
Jessica Pegula (4) vs. Mayar Sherif
Jessica Pegula enters the tournament with high expectations after reaching the finals in the previous year. However, she has struggled with consistency recently, making this match against Mayar Sherif particularly intriguing. Pegula will need to reclaim her confidence to fend off Sherif, who is aiming to capitalize on her vulnerabilities.
Matches on Louis Armstrong Court
The first day on Louis Armstrong Court kicks off two hours earlier, featuring intriguing matchups:
Emma Raducanu vs. Ena Shibahara (Q)
Emma Raducanu looks to bounce back from a silent spell at the U.S. Open since her remarkable 2021 title win. Paired against qualifying doubles specialist Ena Shibahara, Raducanu has some new strategies to test following her coaching change. This match will be pivotal for her to turn the tide.
Emilio Nava (WC) vs. Taylor Fritz (4)
In an all-American clash, Emilio Nava faces a significant challenge against last year’s finalist Taylor Fritz. While Fritz aims to break the Grand Slam drought for U.S. men, Nava will look to make his mark on the big stage after qualifying via the USTA Challenge.
Grandstand Highlights
Grandstand matches promise to engage fans with high-stakes encounters:
Jakub Menšík (16) vs. Nicolás Jarry
Expect serve-heavy play when Jakub Menšík faces Nicolás Jarry. As both players grapple with early-career pressures, their ability to maintain focus will be crucial.
Alexandra Eala vs. Clara Tauson (14)
Eala has rapidly gained a following with her impressive performances. Facing Clara Tauson, a formidable ball striker, this match showcases emerging talent.
Around the Grounds
Other noteworthy matches abound in various courts, including:
Rebecca Marino (Q) vs. Leylah Fernandez (31)
This all-Canadian encounter is set to test Leylah Fernandez’s recent form after her title win at the Citi Open.
Janice Tjen (Q) vs. Veronika Kudermetova (24)
Keep an eye on Janice Tjen, who may present a formidable challenge to Kudermetova, especially given the Indonesian’s rising promise.
Conclusion
The 2025 U.S. Open promises thrilling first-day action with compelling matches that could set the tone for the tournament. From returning champions like Djokovic and Sabalenka to hopeful newcomers like Tien and Menšík, Day 1 will be a showcase of talent, strategy, and heart.
With three days of first-round matches, the tournament creates a unique opportunity for players and fans alike. Mark your calendars and catch all the action live, ensuring you don’t miss any of these pivotal encounters.
For updates and live streaming, viewers can tune into ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN+, and ABC.
What Matches Are You Most Excited About?
Engage with fellow tennis enthusiasts and share which matches you are looking out for in the comments! Your insights could contribute to the wider conversation as we all enjoy this sporting spectacle.
