Day 5 US Open action in New York features Iga Swiatek chasing another deep run as she aims to extend her hot streak on hard courts, while Renata Zarazua hopes to pull off another upset. A panel of analysts shared their predictions for all the day’s matches.
Iga Swiatek vs Suzan Lamens
– Ilemona: Swiatek kicked off with authority and has carried that form through the hard-court season. Lamens fought through a tight opener but has limited experience at this level on this surface. It’s a tall task, though surprises do happen in New York.
– Jordan: Lamens often plays fearlessly against higher-ranked opponents, which could keep this competitive, but there’s no real path to victory for Lamens against the world No. 1. Swiatek’s level since Wimbledon has been unmatched.
– Tope: The top seed’s power, precision and relentless baseline game should allow her to control this match from the start.
Prediction: Swiatek in 2
Jaqueline Cristian vs Ashlyn Krueger
– Ilemona: Cristian’s first-round upset of Danielle Collins showed she can rise to big moments. Krueger’s big, aggressive game is dangerous when it clicks, so expect a question of who handles crucial points better.
– Jordan: Krueger will try to push Cristian around with depth and pace, but Cristian’s ability to move Krueger with top-spin and rhythm gives Cristian a slight edge.
– Tope: Krueger thrives on hard courts and home support could amplify her pop. Expect a tight battle, but Cristian’s firepower should carry her to the win.
Prediction: Cristian in 3
Linda Noskova vs Eva Lys
– Ilemona: Noskova’s aggressive play and steady growth on hard courts stand out, while Lys has fewer results at this level. Momentum and confidence may tilt the match Noskova’s way.
– Jordan: Lys is steadily improving, but Noskova’s bigger game on this surface is likely to prevail.
– Tope: Noskova is the more established name here and should edge the contest, though Lys has shown players can be tougher than expected on hard courts.
Prediction: Noskova in 3
Renata Zarazua vs Diane Parry
– Ilemona: Zarazua showed variety and grit in the first round, while Parry also looked steady. This one should be tight with long rallies.
– Jordan: Zarazua’s win over Madison Keys was eye-catching, but Parry’s heavy topspin forehand and slicing backhand could disrupt Zarazua’s rhythm. Parry has the edge here.
– Tope: Both players arrive with momentum. Zarazua disrupted Keys in the opener, while Parry bageled Petra Kvitova in her most recent match. Parry is the more polished player, but Zarazua’s never-say-die spirit could swing it in her favor, especially if they stay close in the first set.
Prediction: Zarazua in 3
What to watch
– Swiatek remains the early favorite on the draw, but Lamens will try to disrupt with variety and pace if Swiatek isn’t dialed in from the start.
– Cristian’s upset of Collins shows she can seize moments; Krueger’s power might create long rallies that test Cristian’s concentration.
– Noskova’s ascent on hard courts is continuing, with Lys aiming to prove she can handle higher-ranked rivals.
– Zarazua’s resilience has been on display, but Parry’s variety could force errors in key moments.
Summary and outlook
Swiatek’s form makes her the standout favorite on day five, with several matches expected to produce competitive rallies and potential upsets. Zarazua’s track record of pulling off surprises keeps her in the mix, while Parry and Krueger bring additional momentum into their contests. Fans can anticipate a mix of straight-sets wins and tight, grinding battles that highlight the depth and drama of this year’s US Open.
Positive note
The landscape on day five features a blend of established champions and rising talents, offering opportunities for memorable moments and breakthrough performances as the tournament progresses.