US Open action begins Sunday with a slate of compelling first-round matchups on both the men’s and women’s sides.Among the marquee battles, sixth seed Ben Shelton opens his campaign on Arthur Ashe Stadium against Ignacio Buse, while a host of other matches across the day feature rising prospects and experienced hands ready to clash on the big stage. Here’s a refreshed look at the day’s men’s singles previews and predictions.
Fabian Marozsan vs Ugo Blanchet
Blanchet arrives in New York as a qualifier making his US Open main-draw debut, and he’s shown resilience by winning seven of his last ten matches across events. But Marozsan brings a steadier combination of power and consistency that should carry him through this opening test.
Prediction: Marozsan in 4
Camilo Ugo Carabelli vs Tomas Martin Etcheverry
Two Argentines who know each other’s games well from Futures and Challenger circuits lock horns on a hard court for only the second time at tour level. Etcheverry won their lone previous meeting on clay, and on a faster surface he’s typically the stronger mover with more weapons to pressure Carabelli, though the match could be tighter than many expect.
Prediction: Etcheverry in 5
Zachary Svajda vs Zsombor Piros
A story of contrast in generations and paths: Svajda is a familiar presence in New York, aiming to add to his win total in his fifth main-draw appearance, while Piros arrives off a strong qualifying run into his Grand Slam main draw debut. The Hungarian’s confidence is riding high after qualifying success, but Svajda’s form on this stage should carry him through.
Prediction: Svajda in 4-5
Ben Shelton vs Ignacio Buse
The home crowd will be buzzing as #6 seed Shelton takes the court against Buse, who earned his Grand Slam main-draw debut after a solid qualifying run. Shelton’s level on big stages is well established, and the power and consistency he brings should prove too much for the qualifier.
Prediction: Shelton in 3
Other day-one matches to watch on the men’s side include Novak Djokovic vs Learner Tien, Taylor Fritz vs Emilio Nava, Daniil Medvedev vs Benjamin Bonzi, and Jakub Mensik vs Nicolas Jarry, with additional previews covering those clashes.
What to watch on opening day
– Blanchet’s main-draw debut is a notable milestone; his qualifying run shows grit that could test Marozsan.
– Etcheverry’s comfort level on hard courts will be tested by Carabelli’s steady game and opportunistic play.
– Svajda’s local crowd support could push him through a tight four-setter or a competitive five-setter.
– Shelton’s performance will be a focal point for fans in New York, as he looks to continue his strong season momentum on the world’s biggest stages.
Summary
Sunday’s lineup features a blend of hungry newcomers and seasoned contenders, with several matches expected to produce hard-fought, physical battles on hard courts at Arthur Ashe and beyond. The day should offer a healthy mix of intrigue, momentum-building performances, and the kind of early-round drama that makes the US Open so compelling.
Positive note
There’s a clear undercurrent of rising talent on show, from Blanchet and Piros to Svajda and Buse, with seasoned players like Shelton and Etcheverry providing a steady backdrop. It’s a hopeful sign for the next generation of the sport, as they gain invaluable experience on tennis’s biggest stage.