The US Open women’s singles draw is out: will Sabalenka Swiatek, Rybakina or Gauff become queen?

As the US Open 2024 approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a thrilling finale to the WTA season.

With a star-studded field featuring Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Elena Rybakina, Coco Gauff, Jasmine Paolini, Qinwen Zheng, Jessica Pegula, Danielle Collins, and Barbora Krejcikova, the tournament at Flushing Meadows is set to deliver high drama and fierce competition.

Contenders and Favorites

Iga Swiatek, the WTA No. 1, finds herself on a challenging path. The Polish player could potentially face Italian Elisabetta Cocciaretto in the third round. Danielle Collins, also in the top-half of the draw, could further complicate matters for Swiatek. Despite these challenges, Aryna Sabalenka, the No. 2 seed, emerges as a key favorite.

Sabalenka, who recently clinched the Cincinnati title, has been in exceptional form. Her powerful game and adaptability on hard courts make her a formidable contender for the title.

Jasmine Paolini, currently ranked No. 5, faces a daunting draw. Her opening match against Canadian Bianca Andreescu, the 2019 US Open champion, is particularly tough.

Potential encounters with Egyptian Sherif or former world No. 1 Karolina Pliskova, as well as a possible third-round match against Yulia Putintseva or Linda Noskova, make Paolini’s path to the latter stages fraught with challenges.

The presence of Jelena Ostapenko or Leylah Fernandez in the round of 16 and Elena Rybakina in the quarterfinals

further complicates her route. Despite this, Paolini’s resilience and talent will be tested as she navigates through a treacherous draw.

Defending Champion and Rising Stars

Coco Gauff, the defending champion, faces an uphill battle. After a summer marred by disappointments at Wimbledon and the Paris Olympics, Gauff’s form on North American hard courts remains uncertain. Her ability to defend her title will depend on overcoming both mental and physical hurdles.

Elena Rybakina’s prospects are intriguing. Despite enduring physical issues throughout the year, her potential for a resurgence at the US Open cannot be discounted. If she can find her best form, New York could indeed be the stage for her revival.

Qinwen Zheng, a notable Olympic champion and Australian Open finalist, is positioned as a potential surprise package. With a favorable draw, Zheng has the opportunity to make significant strides in the tournament, possibly achieving a breakthrough result.

Outsiders and Dark Horses

Jessica Pegula and Danielle Collins emerge as possible dark horses. Pegula, with her solid game and experience, might leverage the crowd support and her familiarity with the surface to make a deep run. Similarly, Collins, known for her tenacity and ability to rise to the occasion, could make a notable impact if she finds her rhythm.

As the US Open unfolds, the women’s tournament is set to offer a captivating spectacle. With a blend of seasoned stars and emerging talents, fans can expect a dynamic and unpredictable contest.

Whether Aryna Sabalenka’s power, Iga Swiatek’s consistency, or a surprise performance from an outsider will define the championship remains to be seen.