World · Singapore Bureau
Defending champions Alcaraz, Sabalenka chase third US Open titles
Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka are set to defend their US Open crowns as the tournament's first round continues in New York. Both players are targeting their third championships at Flushing Meadows.
LSN Singapore ·
The two top seeds enter Monday's matches with designs on extending their dominance at the year's final Grand Slam event. Alcaraz claimed back-to-back US Open titles in 2022 and 2023, while Sabalenka won consecutive championships in 2023 and 2024, establishing herself as a formidable force on hard courts.
As defending champions, both players carry the weight of expectations as they pursue their third trophies at the event. Sabalenka's consistent performances have made her a favourite in the women's draw, while Alcaraz remains the benchmark in men's tennis despite increased competition from rising challengers.
The tournament has drawn the sport's elite competitors, with the first round continuing through the week. The matches provide early tests of form and fitness for the champions as they navigate the gruelling Grand Slam format.
Successfully defending a title at the US Open remains a rare achievement in professional tennis, making any three-time champion an exceptional feat. Both Alcaraz and Sabalenka will need to maintain peak performance through seven matches to accomplish the objective.