US Open Day 1 round-up: Djokovic prevails, Medvedev crashes, Sabalenka cruises
The last Grand Slam of the season got off to a dramatic start on Sunday.
Zuma/Psnewz
The 2025 US Open introduced a weekend start for the first time, adding energy to an already buzzing Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. It could not go without drama. Daniil Medvedev, the 2021 US Open champion and No. 13 seed, suffered a shocking first-round exit, falling to Benjamin Bonzi in five sets after a long delay at match point due to the movement of a photograph.
Medvedev, who has endured early exits at all Grand Slams this year, including a first-round loss to Bonzi at Wimbledon, could not convert match points in the fourth set and ultimately lost 6-3, 7-5, 6-7, 0-6, 6-4.
Upsets marked the opening day of the women’s tournament also. Alexandra Eala stunned No. 14 seed Clara Tauson in three sets, becoming the first player from the Philippines to reach the second round since 2009. Indonesian qualifier Janice Tjen made history by defeating No. 24 Veronika Kudermetova, Indonesia’s first Grand Slam win in 22 years.
Djokovic overcomes an injury alert
The rest of the day was quieter. Novak Djokovic, the seventh seed and four-time US Open champion, overcame a mid-match injury scare to dispatch American teenager Learner Tien in straight sets and secure his spot in the second round. Djokovic appeared hampered late in the second set, calling a medical timeout for his right hamstring, but relied on experience and big serving to complete a 6-1, 7-6, 6-2 win.
On the women’s side, defending champion Aryna Sabalenka sailed through her opener against Rebeka Masarova, clinching a 7-5, 6-1 victory on Arthur Ashe Stadium. “I’m happy to be starting strong,” Sabalenka said. “There’s always nerves, but I know what it takes.” Her next opponent will be qualifier Polina Kudermetova.
Emma Raducanu started strong with a resounding 6-1, 6-2 win over Ena Shibahara. “The crowd here is always electric,” Raducanu said, referencing her 2021 New York title run.
Ben Shelton, seeded sixth among the men, handled his opening test against qualifier Ignacio Buse, winning 6-3, 6-2, 6-4 behind a barrage of aces and explosive forehands. “The first match is always tricky. I’m glad I found my rhythm,” Shelton said.
Other notable men’s winners included Fritz, Ruud, Lehecka, and Machac, all advancing with comfortable victories.
