Day eight of the US Open serves up a slate of high-profile matchups as former champions line up in the round of 16. On the men’s side, Carlos Alcaraz, who hasn’t dropped a single set at this event, will take on France’s Arthur Rinderknech. Novak Djokovic, the oldest man since Jimmy Connors in 1991 to reach the fourth round, is scheduled to face Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff. Neither Alcaraz nor Djokovic have ever lost to their would-be next opponents, reinforcing thefavorites’ chances as the event progresses.
In the women’s draw, top seed Aryna Sabalenka opens her campaign against unseeded Cristina Bucsa. Elena Rybakina, coming off a commanding win over Emma Raducanu, will meet Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova. The matchup brings together two of the season’s standout players, with Rybakina and Vondrousova having met twice before; Rybakina holds the edge in their most recent encounter.
Start times for Sunday’s matches, August 31, were released.
Additional context and value:
– What to watch: Alcaraz’s clean sheet record could be put to the test by Rinderknech’s variety and serve, while Djokovic’s longevity adds a layer of intrigue to the Struff matchup.
– Women’s side: Sabalenka’s consistency versus Bucsa’s upset potential could set the tone for the rest of the draw; the Rybakina–Vondrousova clash features two former Wimbledon champions with different styles at play.
– Historical angles: Djokovic’s continued pursuit of Grand Slam consistency at an older age; Alcaraz aiming to maintain a flawless set record; the presence of top-tier champions on both sides signals a competitive weekend.
Summary: The eighth day at the US Open delivers a blend of experienced greats and rising talents, with each match carrying implications for seeding, confidence, and momentum as the tournament advances.
Positive spin: The lineup promises entertaining, high-stakes tennis that highlights depth across both tours, giving fans a front-row view of fresh breakthroughs and enduring excellence at a major springboard event.