Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka Register Winning Starts at the US Open

Defending champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka made confident starts to their title campaigns at the US Open on August 31, with both securing straight-sets victories at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Alcaraz marked his return to competitive tennis after a lengthy injury layoff by defeating Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. The Spaniard, who had been sidelined by a right wrist injury since April, showed no major signs of discomfort as he grew stronger during the contest.

“I had more nerves than usual, but just happy,” Alcaraz said after making his return. “My goal here is to compete, to enjoy, and let’s see how my body is going to react after the matches.”

The victory could make Alcaraz an even stronger contender to retain his title. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is sidelined with a knee injury, while Novak Djokovic suffered a shock first-round defeat, his first opening-round loss at Flushing Meadows. Djokovic had entered the tournament with a 19-0 first-round record at the US Open, where he has won four titles.

Earlier, Sabalenka defeated Camila Osorio 6-4, 6-4 to begin her bid for a historic third consecutive US Open crown. She is aiming to become the first player to win three straight women's singles titles at the tournament since Serena Williams from 2012 to 2014.

The world No. 1 has reached the last three US Open finals, losing to Coco Gauff in 2023 before winning the title in 2024 and successfully defending it in 2025.

Sabalenka's victory was particularly significant after a difficult run of recent tournaments, including fourth-round exits at Wimbledon, Toronto and Cincinnati. She also faces a challenge to retain the world No. 1 ranking, with Elena Rybakina capable of overtaking her depending on results in New York.

Elsewhere, Stefanos Tsitsipas stunned 10th seed Arthur Fils 4-6, 7-6 (3), 6-1, 6-4, while Karolina Muchova cruised into the next round. Former champions Naomi Osaka and Iga Swiatek also advanced, while Stan Wawrinka began what is set to be his final Grand Slam tournament.

With two defending champions safely through, the US Open title race is beginning to take shape in New York.