Alcaraz and Djokovic Face Tough Tests in US Open Draw

NEW YORK (AP) — Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic are set to face challenging American opponents as they begin their quest for the US Open title on Sunday.

Alcaraz, the No. 2 seed, will start against Reilly Opelka, a former top-20 player known for his powerful serve and towering height of 6-foot-11, who reached the fourth round at the US Open in 2021.

Djokovic, the seventh seed and currently ranked No. 7, is scheduled to face Learner Tien, a promising 19-year-old left-hander. Tien made headlines earlier this year by upsetting Daniil Medvedev during the Australian Open.

Alcaraz, who won his first US Open title last year, is looking to add to his Grand Slam tally, which currently stands at five. Djokovic, on the other hand, holds the record for the most men’s Grand Slam titles with 24, including four at the US Open.

Meanwhile, 45-year-old Venus Williams returns to the tournament for the first time since 2022, receiving a wild card entry. She will play against No. 11 seed Karolina Muchova, a former French Open finalist who has reached the semifinals at Flushing Meadows in the past two years.

In the women’s tournament, No. 3 seed Coco Gauff, who won her first major title at the 2023 US Open, will face Ajla Tomljanovic in her opening match. Gauff’s potential quarterfinal matchup could see her up against fellow top players like Aryna Sabalenka and Jessica Pegula.

The tournament begins on Sunday, August 24, with matches scheduled to continue until the finals on September 7.

Both Alcaraz and Djokovic understand the challenge ahead, particularly in the early rounds, and each hopes to avoid early exits in pursuit of tennis glory.