Coco Gauff enters 2026 U.S. Open as favorite amid strong field
Fresh off a Cincinnati title, American Coco Gauff is among the top contenders for the 2026 U.S. Open, which features a deep roster of recent major winners and rising stars.
Coco Gauff arrives at Flushing Meadows with recent momentum after capturing the Cincinnati title and reaching the Wimbledon quarterfinals. Analysts view her as a leading candidate for the championship, noting her focus on singles competition rather than mixed-doubles events.
The tournament field includes several recent major winners. Aryna Sabalenka, who has a 20–1 record at the U.S. Open since 2023, seeks her fourth consecutive title despite a recent slump in form. Elena Rybakina returns from a leg injury sustained in Cincinnati and aims to improve on her previous best of the fourth round in New York. Jessica Pegula, a former finalist, balances on-court performance with off-court advocacy for player wages.
Other notable entrants are Iga Świątek, the 2022 champion who has adapted well to hard courts, and Naomi Osaka, a two-time U.S. Open winner returning as a seeded wild card. Younger prospects such as Mirra Andreeva, Linda Nosková, and Iva Jovic also feature, each looking to make a breakthrough.
Veteran players including Karolina Muchová, Elina Svitolina and Madison Keys add depth to the draw, while former champions Venus Williams and Sloane Stephens are slated for early-round matches. The tournament’s opening round includes a matchup between Venus Williams and Sofia Kenin.
Overall, the 2026 U.S. Open presents a competitive mix of established champions, emerging talents and seasoned veterans, setting the stage for a closely contested event.