Defending champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka secured straight-set victories in the first round of the US Open. Alcaraz, returning from a four-month injury absence, defeated Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Alcaraz expressed his relief and joy at returning to competition, stating, "It’s been a really tough five months for me. Being able to step on the Arthur Ashe, being able to compete again, I couldn’t decide to come back in a better tournament. It’s a really special place for me." He aims to add another major title to his Australian Open victory earlier this year.
Sabalenka, the women's defending champion, also advanced with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Camila Osorio, despite making 23 unforced errors. She noted, "She brought the fight... I just tried to stay as aggressive as possible." Sabalenka has not reached a final since winning the Indian Wells and Miami titles in March.
Other notable results included Naomi Osaka defeating Anastasia Zakharova in a tightly contested match, Iga Swiatek winning against Wang Xiyu, and Stefanos Tsitsipas overcoming Arthur Fils. Canadian Felix Auger-Aliassime and American Ben Shelton also progressed to the second round. Top-seeded Alexander Zverev is set to begin his campaign on Tuesday.