U.S. Open bracket analysis: Carlos Alcaraz gets a nightmare start, Aryna Sabalenka faces odyssey

Key Points:

• Defending men’s champion Carlos Alcaraz faces a challenging first-round match against Roman Safiullin, whose aggressive playing style and experience could test Alcaraz, especially given his recent wrist injury.
• On the women’s side, Elena Rybakina’s uncertain participation due to a left Achilles issue could significantly impact the draw and the race for world No. 1, potentially benefiting players like Iga Świątek.
• Defending women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka enters the tournament with vulnerability, facing a tough draw that includes potential matches against tricky opponents such as Barbora Krejčíková and Maja Chwalińska, amid pressure to defend her No. 1 ranking.
• The men’s draw may lack early-round excitement in the top half due to injuries and absences, while the women’s draw appears more balanced and competitive, promising intense matches and multiple potential champions.
• Analysts highlight several first-round matches to watch, including Coco Gauff vs. Zeynep Sönmez, Stefanos Tsitsipas vs. Arthur Fils, and Matteo Berrettini vs. Stan Wawrinka, emphasizing the tournament’s blend of established stars and rising talents.