Pegula And Kostyuk Cruise Through, Medvedev Finds Form At US Open

The US Open 2026 got off to an eventful start as Jessica Pegula, Marta Kostyuk and Daniil Medvedev secured convincing victories, while rain disrupted play across the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York.

Third seed Jessica Pegula looked composed in her opening-round match, defeating Elena-Gabriela Ruse 6-3, 6-2. The American, who reached the US Open final in 2024, admitted she felt nervous before stepping onto the court but quickly settled into her rhythm.

Pegula has enjoyed an outstanding season, leading the women's tour with 46 victories along with two titles and three other final appearances. She could rise to world No. 1 if she wins her maiden Grand Slam title and Elena Rybakina exits before the semifinals.

Eleventh seed Marta Kostyuk also made an impressive start, beating Storm Hunter 6-4, 6-1. The Ukrainian arrives in New York with considerable confidence after reaching the semifinals at both the French Open and Wimbledon.

Former champion Daniil Medvedev overcame a difficult build-up to the tournament to defeat Hugo Gaston 6-4, 6-2, 6-4. The seventh seed had managed just one victory during the North American hard-court swing but produced a much-improved performance when it mattered.

Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic faced an early test in his pursuit of a record-extending 25th Grand Slam title. The 39-year-old dropped the opening set against Mariano Navone before rain forced a suspension at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Other winners included Elina Svitolina, Jasmine Paolini, Leylah Fernandez and Tommy Paul. Two-time Grand Slam champion Barbora Krejcikova, however, was knocked out by Kamilla Rakhimova.

Rain proved a major spoiler, with seven matches unable to finish. Injuries also forced former champion Marin Cilic and 2022 runner-up Casper Ruud to withdraw.

The tournament is simultaneously undergoing an $800 million renovation of Arthur Ashe Stadium, with the three-year project scheduled for completion ahead of the 2027 US Open.