Alcaraz and Sabalenka Advance in US Open Returns

Carlos Alcaraz opened his US Open campaign with a 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 win over Roman Safiullin, reporting that his right wrist felt normal after being sidelined since April. > "I don’t know how it looked from outside, but from inside, my feeling was that I was hitting normal," Alcaraz said. He added that he was focused on competing and enjoying the tournament, while acknowledging the uncertainty of how far he could progress.

Alcaraz entered the match as the No. 2 seed and appeared increasingly comfortable as the contest progressed, delivering the all-court play that has made him popular with New York crowds. His victory comes as fellow top seed Novak Djokovic was eliminated in the first round, opening the draw for other contenders.

In the women's draw, Aryna Sabalenka, a two-time US Open champion, defeated Camila Osorio 6-4, 6-4, aiming for a third consecutive title – a feat not achieved since Serena Williams in 2014. > "I feel like this is one of my favorite stadiums," Sabalenka told the audience after her win. She noted a change in her outfit, explaining that the orange-mesh ensemble was part of a day-session design from Nike.

Sabalenka, who has reached the final in each of the last three editions, needs the title to retain the world No. 1 ranking, as Elena Rybakina will overtake her if she does not reach the semifinals. Other notable first-round results included Stan Wawrinka’s loss to Matteo Berrettini in his final Grand Slam appearance and Stefanos Tsitsipas defeating Arthur Fils to stay in the tournament.

The day also saw Emma Navarro survive a three-set battle against Lois Boisson, winning 7-6 (6), 6-7 (1), 6-3 after rain delayed the match.