Aryna Sabalenka began her US Open title defence with a straight-sets victory over Camila Osorio, winning 6-2, 6-4 in a match played on Tuesday at Flushing Meadows. Sabalenka emphasized a forward-looking approach amid a challenging few months, saying she avoids dwelling on past results—whether positive or negative—to maintain focus. She acknowledges that recent struggles have put her No. 1 ranking at risk, with Elena Rybakina positioned to overtake her if Sabalenka fails to advance deep in the tournament.

In her opening match, Sabalenka demonstrated strong serving and dominated from the baseline, controlling the first set comfortably before closing out the second with a decisive run of three consecutive games. She credited Osorio for putting up a solid fight and described her strategy as maintaining an aggressive stance throughout the contest.

Meanwhile, the men’s draw featured a notable upset as Stefanos Tsitsipas defeated 10th seed Arthur Fils in four sets, 4-6, 7-6 (3), 6-1, 6-4. Fils, fresh off a Cincinnati Open title and regarded as a contender in the open men’s field, held a commanding lead late in the second set. However, he faltered while serving for the set at 5-2, allowing Tsitsipas an opening. The Greek player, a former world No. 3 and two-time Grand Slam finalist, capitalized on the opportunity, ultimately turning the match in his favour.

Fils acknowledged his slip in energy and professionalism during the crucial second-set service game and expressed the need to consult with his team following the defeat. Tsitsipas, who has battled a significant rankings decline this year—falling as low as No. 88 before rising to No. 53—entered the tournament amid major changes, having recently ended his long-standing coaching relationship with his father due to growing tensions.

This victory marks an important milestone in Tsitsipas’ efforts to re-establish himself among tennis’s elite. Both Sabalenka and Tsitsipas capitalized on their opportunities early in the tournament, setting the stage for potentially deep runs at this year’s US Open.