Day 1 on the US Open brings a compelling slate of first-round matches, with established contenders like Daniil Medvedev trying to start their campaigns strongly and rising gamers like Jack Kennedy hoping to make an affect on the Grand Slam stage. Our writers break down the motion and supply their predictions for the 2026 US Open.
US Open Day 1 Predictions
Daniil Medvedev vs Hugo Gaston
Zain:
Coming into the match he famously gained in 2021 within the worst possible form, Daniil Medvedev might want to lock in from the get-go, as Hugo Gaston’s heavy selection and lefty baseline sport may cause him hassle. The Frenchman has not had the most effective of seasons himself this 12 months, however I count on this match to go lengthy, with Medvedev’s serving finally proving to be the distinction.
Prediction: Medvedev in 5
Amanda:
It’s been an odd season for Medvedev, who has reached excessive highs and lows all year long. Medvedev has had some odd losses within the lead-up to the US Open, however in best-of-five he shouldn’t have an excessive amount of hassle with Gaston, who has by no means gained a main-draw match on the US Open.
Prediction: Medvedev in 4
Alex Michelsen vs Federico Cina
Zain:
To kick off his dwelling Slam, Alex Michelsen takes on Federico Cina, the Italian teenager who nonetheless performs most of his tennis on the Challenger Tour. Cina did nicely to return by means of the qualifying spherical, however in opposition to the improved ball high quality of Michelsen, I don’t assume the Italian has a lot of an opportunity, particularly on a tough courtroom.
Prediction: Michelsen in 3
Amanda:
Cina got here by means of qualifying and performed nicely, notching two three-set upsets, however going through Michelsen might be a a lot more durable activity. Michelsen had summer time onerous courtroom swing heading into the US Open, constantly beating the individuals he’s presupposed to and profitable a Challenger title. This must be an easy first spherical for him.
Prediction: Michelsen in 3
Lloyd Harris vs Jack Kennedy
Zain:
Each of those gamers are ranked nicely exterior the highest 100 on the earth, with Lloyd Harris coming by means of qualifying and Jack Kennedy receiving a main-draw wildcard. This can really be the younger American’s first match on the professional tour, and whereas he has proven glimpses of his stage in Challengers, in opposition to Harris’ massive serve, that is probably a bridge too far, too quickly for Kennedy.
Prediction: Harris in 4
Amanda:
Kennedy, the USTA Boys’ 18s Nationwide Champion, makes his Grand Slam fundamental draw debut and might be up in opposition to Harris, a former US Open quarterfinalist. Aside from that, Harris doesn’t have constant Grand Slam outcomes, however his expertise in best-of-five provides him an edge over the newcomer.
Prediction: Harris in 4
Fundamental Photograph Credit score: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports activities
