The U.S. Open is the last of the four major grand slams in the professional tennis season. As the only grand slam in the Western Hemisphere, and in the bustling city of New York, the event attracts a lot of commotion. From star attendees like Lindsay Lohan and Anna Wintour, to pop culture moments like Naomi Osaka’s red bedazzled Labubu, named Billie Jean Bling, this event is widely covered in the media. The tournament is currently underway in the semifinals, with the women’s final on Saturday, Sept. 6, and the men’s final on Sunday, Sept. 7.
The Greenhill community has been actively invested in this thrilling tournament, and tennis fans across campus have shared their current hot takes and opinions.
Who’s the one player you can’t wait to see under the lights at Arthur Ashe stadium?
“Alcaraz (he’s my favorite) and Shelton (may be ready to level up). Was hoping to watch Ashlyn Krueger since she’s from Brookhaven, but she lost second round,” said Upper School history teacher and varsity boys tennis Head Coach Scott Cotton via email.
“I am most excited to watch Iga Swiatek. Her consistent and aggressive playing style makes her amazing to watch,” said senior Aashna Saxena.
Which lower-ranked player do you think could shock everyone this year?
“My favorite underdog right now is João Fonseca from Brazil. He just celebrated his 19th birthday, and he has so much potential. He may be out of the U.S. open right now, but I think he has potential for the whole year,” said junior Miles Wilson.
Which two players would you love to see face off?
“I would love to see a Sinner vs. Alcaraz rematch — the two always put on an amazing show. Past matches between Sinner and Alcaraz have been extremely competitive, and you never really know who will win,” said Saxena.
Do you prefer rooting for the veterans or the rising stars?
“I actually like supporting players who have been playing for longer. I think that many people like to support newcomers, but I always love rooting for my favorite players who I have seen play before. Right now, my favorite legends are Jannik Sinner and Taylor Fritz. I would love to see Fritz get to the finals,” said Wilson.
“I prefer rooting for the rising stars because I think there are some really talented players who haven’t gotten the recognition they deserve, and would be future stars,” said sophomore Chloe Tandon.
Who do you think has the best on-court fashion this year? Which brand provides the best kit?
“Alcaraz has definitely had the best swag this year. His outfits kind of remind me of the 80’s style, similar to what Andre Agassi wore. His shirt in the French open final was pretty cool, and I think its brand was Adidas. Also, he is rocking a buzz cut right now,” said Wilson.
“Alcaraz always has a great kit (although the haircut is debatable). Worst: the Ralph Lauren outfits for umpires and ball kids – especially the shoes,” said Cotton.
If you had to lock in your championship matchup right now, who’s standing across the net on Saturday and Sunday?
“I think it will be Sinner or Djokovic vs. Alcaraz in the men’s final. As for the women’s final, I think it could be Swiatek vs. Sabalenka,” said Saxena.
“I predict the men’s final will be Sinner vs. Alcaraz and the women’s will be Sabalenka vs. Osaka,” said Tandon.
