US Open Predictions: The Sky Sports Tennis Panel Picks Their Winners

The Sky Sports Tennis panel has revealed their selections for the winners and dark horses ahead of the final Grand Slam of the year, the US Open. Experts including Tim Henman, Laura Robson, Ryan Harrison, Naomi Broady, and Martina Navratilova have shared their insights and predictions for the tournament in New York.

Tim Henman's Predictions

Winners

Alexander Zverev: Henman believes Zverev has elevated his game since winning his first Grand Slam title at the French Open, becoming more aggressive and proactive. With Jannik Sinner absent and Carlos Alcaraz returning from injury, Henman sees this as a prime opportunity for Zverev to capitalize.

Aryna Sabalenka: Despite recent form not being exceptional, Henman points to Sabalenka's stature and intensity at Grand Slams, invoking the saying "Form is temporary, class is permanent."

Dark Horses

Arthur Fils: Having already backed Fils when he reached the Cincinnati quarter-finals, Henman acknowledges his significant step up. He notes that if Fils can stay healthy through the demanding best-of-five-set matches, he has a strong chance.

Alex Eala: Henman praises Eala as an unbelievable competitor with impressive game improvement and strong support. He admires her attitude and spirit, making her an exciting dark horse pick.

Ryan Harrison's Predictions

Winners

Novak Djokovic: Harrison believes this is a significant opportunity for Djokovic, despite a couple of recent losses. He highlights Djokovic's strong performance at majors, particularly his hardcourt Grand Slam finals, and predicts he will go all the way.

Coco Gauff: Harrison expects Gauff to continue her current strong form.

Dark Horses

Learner Tien: Harrison notes Tien's excellent form, numerous match wins, and suitable temperament for best-of-five-set matches, mentioning his notable wins at the Australian Open.

Sorana Cirstea: With a great year, possibly her best ever, and speculation that this might be her last season, Harrison sees Cirstea as a potential Cinderella story entering what could be her final major tournament.

Naomi Broady's Predictions

Winners

Arthur Fils: Broady believes Fils is in form and could have already won a Grand Slam without his injuries. He highlights Fils' high trajectory and potential impact on the tournament.

Iga Swiatek: Broady states that Swiatek is simply "Iga," playing exceptionally well. He believes her spin is highly effective on the lively hard courts, and she has regained some of her star power in recent weeks.

Dark Horses

Ben Shelton: An American player who is performing well and is expected to feed off the energy of the home crowd.

Marta Kostyuk: Having had a great year, Broady feels a Grand Slam title is the next logical step for Kostyuk's career.

Naomi Cavaday's Predictions

Winners

Carlos Alcaraz: Cavaday considers Alcaraz the favorite, provided he is fit and healthy. She notes that multiple Grand Slam champions often return to their top form quickly, and she is confident in his ability to perform.

Jessica Pegula: Pegula is described as playing great and consistently putting herself in strong positions. Cavaday believes she is ready to capitalize if other players falter, referencing her previous finalist appearance.

Dark Horses

Ann Lee: Cavaday points to Lee's strong, though often overlooked, season. As a seeded American with attractive shots and growing experience on tour, she projects significant future success for Lee and anticipates a potential quarter-final match against Aryna Sabalenka.

Thiago Tirante: A favorite player for Cavaday, known for hitting the ball harder than anyone else, with exceptional forehand and serve speeds. She believes he is destined for the top 20 and will be a major force.

Jonathan Overend's Predictions

Winners

Arthur Fils: Overend acknowledges Fils' potential given his form in Cincinnati and the absence of key contenders. He notes that winning seven best-of-five-set matches after injury is a challenge, but Fils is in the conversation.

Coco Gauff: Having won Cincinnati and the US Open in 2023, Overend questions why she couldn't repeat her success. He believes her technical deficiencies will become less apparent as her career progresses, suggesting her overall game will come together.

Dark Horses

Frances Tiafoe: Overend is impressed by Tiafoe's increased professionalism and off-court dedication, which he feels is paying off. With incoming form, Tiafoe is considered a player to watch.

Iva Jovic: A talented young player with future Grand Slam potential. Overend suggests this tournament might be too soon for her, but the draw could open up opportunities.

Laura Robson's Predictions

Winners

Alexander Zverev and Jessica Pegula

Dark Horses

Arthur Fils and Madison Keys

Marion Bartoli's Predictions

Winner

Novak Djokovic and Coco Gauff

Dark Horses

Arthur Fils and Sara Bejlek

Martina Navratilova's Predictions

Winners

Sascha Zverev and Iga Swiatek

Dark Horses

Jacob Mensik and Naomi Osaka