The 2025 US Open promises to be one of the most exciting Grand Slam events in recent memory, with a mix of established stars and emerging talents ready to make their mark. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders, dark horses, and key matchups to watch as the tournament unfolds.

The Favorites

Jannik Sinner

• ESPN BET odds: +115
• Tennis Abstract odds: 44.4% Jannik Sinner has been in scintillating form over the past year, boasting a 56-5 record. His only losses have come against Carlos Alcaraz, including a retirement in the Cincinnati final due to illness. Sinner’s ability to dominate from the baseline and his explosive movement make him a formidable opponent. His draw is challenging, but he might not need to hit top gear until a potential semifinal rematch against Jack Draper.

Carlos Alcaraz

• ESPN BET odds: +155
• Tennis Abstract odds: 34.8% Carlos Alcaraz has been equally impressive, with a 54-6 record in 2025 and six titles to his name. His draw includes tough opponents like Reilly Opelka and Ben Shelton, but his recent form—39 wins in his last 41 matches—suggests he’s more than capable of navigating it. Alcaraz and Sinner have set themselves apart as the dominant forces in men’s tennis.

Iga Swiatek

• ESPN BET odds: +270
• Tennis Abstract odds: 25.7% Iga Swiatek has shaken off a mid-season slump to reclaim her status as one of the favorites. She enters the US Open having won 28 of her last 31 sets. If she wins the tournament and Aryna Sabalenka falters early, Swiatek could return to the No. 1 ranking.

Aryna Sabalenka

• ESPN BET odds: +280
• Tennis Abstract odds: 25.1% The defending champion has been consistent, reaching the semifinals in 10 of her last 11 Slams. However, her path to the title is fraught with challenges, including potential matchups against Leylah Fernandez, Clara Tauson, and Elena Rybakina.

Dark Horses

Coco Gauff

• ESPN BET odds: +750
• Tennis Abstract odds: 9.6% Coco Gauff’s season has been a roller coaster, but her clay-court success and French Open title highlight her potential. If she can iron out her serve issues, she could make a deep run.

Novak Djokovic

• ESPN BET odds: +1200
• Tennis Abstract odds: 4.5% The all-time men’s Slam champion is focusing on majors, and while he’s not the favorite, his experience and skill make him a threat. A favorable draw could see him make another deep run.

Naomi Osaka

• ESPN BET odds: +1600
• Tennis Abstract odds: 0.8% The two-time US Open champion has shown glimpses of her best form this year. Seeded for the first time in nearly four years, Osaka could be a dangerous opponent if she maintains her level.

Key Matchups

• Carlos Alcaraz vs. Reilly Opelka (First Round): A clash of styles as Alcaraz’s baseline brilliance meets Opelka’s towering serve.
• Venus Williams vs. Karolina Muchova (First Round): A battle of experience and youth, with the ageless Venus taking on the crafty Muchova.
• Novak Djokovic vs. Taylor Fritz (Quarterfinals): A potential showdown between the veteran Djokovic and the rising American star Fritz.

Conclusion

The 2025 US Open is set to deliver high drama, with a mix of established champions and hungry challengers vying for glory. Whether it’s the dominance of Sinner and Alcaraz, the resurgence of Swiatek, or the potential for a dark horse to emerge, this tournament promises to be unforgettable.