The US Open has begun at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, kicking off the final major of the season. Here are day-one predictions and best bets for Sunday, August 24, with a closer look at three featured matches and what to expect from the action in Flushing Meadows.
Nicolas Jarry vs. Jakub Mensik
The 19-year-old Mensik has already shown his potential this season, winning his first ATP title on hard courts at the Miami Open and developing a big, threatening serve paired with a strong baseline game. Jarry, who peaked as high as world No. 16 in 2024, is a seasoned power player who has proven capable of holding serve against tough opponents. This should be a serve-filled, competitive clash where both players can hold easily, making straight-set finishes unlikely. Bet: Over 3.5 sets (-155). The matchup projects long rallies and multiple service holds, with a realistic path to a marathon, tightly-contested sets.
Adrian Mannarino vs. Tallon Griekspoor
Mannarino has shown a resurgence since Wimbledon qualifying, posting solid results across the past few months and turning in a notable Cincinnati showing against the eventual champion. Griekspoor, meanwhile, has hit a rough patch on hard courts, entering the Open amid a four-match skid and with limited momentum in recent events. The on-court dynamic favors Mannarino’s counterpunching return game and his ability to drag rallies. Griekspoor’s big serve and aggressive approach could still test him, but Mannarino’s steadiness should give him the edge. Bet: Mannarino ML (+120). A value play on the veteran who is stabilizing his results and has shown he can frustrate bigger servers with consistent returns.
Luca Nardi vs. Tomas Machac
Machac is a high-upside talent whose health and consistency have often held him back, including a history of retirement-heavy stretches that can disrupt rhythm. Nardi, meanwhile, has been in decent form, capable of making Machac work hard with solid serving and steady baseline play. Expect a close, hard-fought match with Nardi keeping things tight and potentially snagging a win if Machac’s rhythm slips. Bet: Nardi +4.5 games (-112). Nardi’s steady play should keep this within reach and help him press for a late break or two.
Added plays
There are additional bets on other Sunday matches for August 24, which can provide extra action if you’re looking to diversify your day-one bets.
Outlook and takeaways for Day 1
Expect hard-serving, competitive battles on a big-serving surface. Both Jarry-Mensik and Machac-Nardi figures offer scenarios where matches stretch to the late sets, especially if returns are dialed in and players fight to control the rallies. Mannarino’s current form against a struggling Griekspoor adds another angle for potential upside on the opener day.
Positive note
The opening matches promise plenty of drama and upside for bettors who read the court conditions and current form well. If you’re following the event closely, Day 1 should set an exciting tone for the rest of the tournament as players try to establish momentum in the year’s final major.
Commentary
The day’s matchups emphasize serve-heavy play and the value of looking beyond ranking alone. Young talents, resurfacing veterans, and consistent grinders all have a chance to shape the narrative early at Flushing Meadows. This sets up an engaging start to the US Open with opportunities for smart, informed bets.