The 2025 edition marks the first US Open to start on a Sunday...
The 2025 US Open began on Sunday with upsets, controversy, and commanding displays as the year’s final Grand Slam began its new 15-day format.
Former champion Daniil Medvedev suffered a dramatic first-round exit, losing to France’s Benjamin Bonzi in five sets: 6-3, 7-5, 6-7(5), 0-6, 6-4. The contest descended into chaos after a photographer walked into the court on Bonzi’s match point. The umpire ordered a re-serve, sparking anger from fans and visible frustration from Medvedev.
The Russian argued with officials, struck his chair in protest, and left the court without his usual handshake routine. Bonzi, however, kept his composure to secure the biggest win of his career.
World No. 7 and former US open Champion Novak Djokovic began his campaign with a straight-sets win over American wildcard Learner Tien, 6-1, 7-6(3), 6-2. The 24-time Grand Slam winner extended his remarkable streak to 75 consecutive opening-round wins at major tournaments.
“I feel good. It’s the start I wanted,” Djokovic said afterwards.
On the women’s side, defending champion and world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka overcame a slow start to beat Rebeka Masarova 7-5, 6-1.
Britain’s Emma Raducanu also enjoyed a winning return to Flushing Meadows, defeating Ena Shibahara 6-1, 6-2. It was her first victory at the US Open since her 2021 title run.
“To come back here and win again means a lot,” Raducanu said.
4th seed Taylor Fritz beat Emilio Nava in straight set 7-5, 6-2, 6-3, while 6th seed Ben Shelton defeated Ignacio Buse 6-3, 6-2, 6-4
14th seed Clara Tauson and 24 seed Veronika Kudermetova were both knocked out in early shocks. Alexandra Eala battled past Tauson in a dramatic third-set tiebreak. Leylah Fernandez and Emma Navarro also progressed.
The 2025 edition marks the first US Open to start on a Sunday, a move extending the tournament to 15 days. Day One delivered controversy, comebacks, and new storylines.
Day Two will see Carlos Alcaraz, Venus Williams, Madison Keys and Frances Tiafoe enter the draw as the spotlight shifts to more big names in New York.
