The US Open kicks off tonight, with plenty of headline matches in the first round!

The much-awaited last Grand Slam event of the year, the US Open, begins tonight Beijing time. Stars are assembled and intense contests are imminent. Before the tournament officially starts, let’s review the notable first-round men’s singles encounters.

In the first quarter, Fucsovics will meet Shapovalov across the net. Both players won titles in warm-up tournaments before the US Open; the Canadian secured his fourth career title in Mexico, accumulating an impressive haul over the past six months, with two crowns matching like twin stars.

The Hungarian just clinched his first hard-court title this morning Beijing time by defeating Vandeweghe Schuup in straight sets in the Winston-Salem final. This was Vandeweghe Schuup’s third tour final but he still has yet to claim his first tour-level championship.

Interestingly, both players’ best Grand Slam results came at Wimbledon 2021, with one reaching the semifinals and the other the quarterfinals. Who will maintain better form on hard courts this time?

Speaking of grass-court prowess, the matchup between Bublik and Cilic is equally compelling. Bublik has won the Halle Open twice, while Cilic was a key figure behind Federer’s eighth Wimbledon title.

Currently, Bublik’s form has dipped somewhat compared to his quarterfinal run at the French Open this year. Since his comeback, Cilic’s highlights have been limited to last year’s China season title, leaving fans eager to see which of these two resurgent players will shine more at the US Open.

Manarino and Griekspoor are also in form, with the former showing signs of revival and the latter enjoying his best season since turning pro. At such a fiercely competitive yet lucrative Grand Slam, each round progressed brings substantial earnings, naturally motivating players to push forward.

Former tournament champion Medvedev has gone over two years without a tour title. Returning to the North American hard courts where he made his name, his form has declined, managing only one win in two Masters events. Drawn against the Frenchman Bonzi in a tough US Open opening round, the former hard-court king faces a real upset risk.

Djokovic will close the night on the main court, facing off against Lenny, who impressed at this year’s Australian Open. Lenny has enlisted veteran Chang as his coach, a fitting choice. Djokovic must stay vigilant; although he might drop a set to the young opponent, the chance of a major upset remains very slim.

This section is packed with first-round highlights, including Norrie vs. Korda, Fonseca battling Kecmanovic, Menchik facing Jarry, and Rune taking on Vandeweghe Schuup.

Who will emerge victorious from these tight first-round clashes? Who will claim a winning start? Let’s wait and see!(Source: Tennis Home, Author: Luo Cheng Qiye)