The 2026 U.S. Open began with notable performances and ongoing venue renovations as players and fans adjusted to the tournament’s early Sunday start, now in its second year. Held at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, the event kicked off with both established and emerging competitors making their mark.

Jessica Pegula, seeded third, overcame initial nerves to secure a victory, demonstrating poise despite her own admission of pre-match anxiety. Meanwhile, No. 11 seed Marta Kostyuk made a strong statement by defeating Storm Hunter in straight sets, 6-4, 6-1. Kostyuk has carried momentum into the tournament following deep runs at both the French Open and Wimbledon this season.

The staggered schedule means that several top players, including defending women’s champion Aryna Sabalenka, began their campaigns on Monday. Sabalenka is set to face Camila Osorio, while men's titleholder Carlos Alcaraz will make his first singles appearance since April after recovering from a wrist injury. Other past champions and notable contenders, such as Naomi Osaka, Iga Swiatek, Sloane Stephens, Stan Wawrinka, Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova, and men’s hopefuls Ben Shelton, Arthur Fils, Felix Auger-Aliassime, and Frances Tiafoe, are also scheduled to compete Monday.

Daniil Medvedev, the 2021 U.S. Open winner, opened with a convincing 6-4, 6-2, 6-4 win over Hugo Gaston despite a difficult lead-up to the tournament. Medvedev acknowledged recent struggles but expressed satisfaction with his performance on the opening day.

The tournament faced interruptions due to weather conditions, with seven matches left unfinished or delayed by rain. A malfunctioning sensor at Louis Armstrong Stadium further complicated play, delaying the match between No. 15 seed Alexander Bublik and J.J. Wolf even after the retractable roof was closed, as the court required drying time.

Injuries have already affected the player field, with 2014 U.S. Open champion Marin Cilic and 2022 runner-up Casper Ruud withdrawing prior to their opening matches.

Ahead of the main draw’s commencement, qualifiers, mixed doubles, and exhibition matches—including a return appearance by Roger Federer—have been held in front of large crowds enjoying free admission in the days leading up to Sunday’s start.

The 2026 tournament is taking place amidst a significant renovation of Arthur Ashe Stadium, part of an $800 million modernization project set to conclude by the 2027 U.S. Open. The upgrades include expanded lower-level seating, enhanced entertainment zones, and a new player performance center. Visible signage around Ashe Stadium requests patience from visitors during this transitional period as organizers work to “reimagine spectacular” for future events.