This is an opportunity for anyone who is brave enough to believe and step up to the challenge.
The Women’s Draw: Top Half
There are fourteen American women in the top half and one of them for sure is not advancing to the second round. There are a few first round matches to keep an eye on. I am hoping Amanda Anisimova can get her game going; however, she has a crafty veteran in the first round, Zarina Diyas. Keep an eye on the two Claras [Clara Burel and Clara Tauson]. American [13] Jennifer Brady may have her hands full with Emma Raducanu. [23] Jessica Pegula may also meet some opposition from Anastasia Potapova
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Bottom Half Of The Women’s Draw
There are nine American women in the bottom half and two of them are not getting to the second round. Two sets of American will clash in the first round: Sloane Stephens and Madison Keys; and Emma Navarro and Christina McHale. [12] Simona Halep may have her hands full with the resurgent Camila Giorgi.
The question of the bottom half is: “How far will [21] Coco Gauff go? While we hate to pile the pressure on, American tennis fans are looking for someone to get excited about. Is [3] Naomi Osaka mentally ready for the big stage of a major? Only Osaka and her God know the answer to that question. [20] Ons Jabeur can be a threat, but she may succumb to the “NY humidity” if Alize Cornet does not upset her in the first round. A sentimental match will be between [26] Danielle Collins and Carla Suarez Navarro [who is retiring this year].
Embed from Getty ImagesWho Will Rise To The Challenge?
While I still think that Barty will get to the final, she needs an opponent. Will it be a veteran or will a young star shine brightly this fortnight? There are plenty of young stars eager to shine; however, are they ready? This US Open is wide open for anyone ready to grasp the opportunity. Will [4] Karolina Pliskova finally serve her way to a major title? Will Emma Raducanu stun the American crowd? Or will [16] Angelique Kerber find some inner spark and rekindle her flame? These questions should make anyone curious about this last major; however, if none of those grabbed your attention, “Will Novak Djokovic win the Grand Slam?”
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