Peers Crown Alcaraz and Djokovic Before a Ball Is Struck
The ATP Tour recently posted a video to its social media channels asking several leading players who they believe will win the US Open this year. The responses were revealing. Tommy Paul tipped Learner Tien, Lorenzo Musetti backed Alexander Zverev, Matteo Arnaldi pointed to Novak Djokovic, and Alex Michelsen chose Carlos Alcaraz. Only Taylor Fritz and Frances Tiafoe had the conviction to back themselves.
Fritz kept it simple with a single-word answer, while Tiafoe was notably passionate about his own chances, saying he has been close before and that it is time to fully commit to believing he can win. Their self-belief stands out sharply against the backdrop of teammates who appear to have already mentally conceded the title.
Why the Field Should Be More Confident This Year
What makes the collective hesitation particularly striking is that the 2025 US Open presents a genuine opportunity for the chasing pack. World number one Jannik Sinner has confirmed he will not compete, and both Alcaraz and Djokovic arrive with question marks around their physical condition. Alcaraz is managing a wrist injury, while Djokovic continues to navigate the later stages of his career.
Fritz has legitimate grounds for confidence, having reached the 2024 US Open final at Flushing Meadows before losing to Sinner. Tiafoe has twice advanced to the semi-finals at the same event. Those records give both Americans a solid foundation for ambition rather than deference.
The main draw gets underway on August 30, with the bracket being revealed on August 27. TennisDraw users will want to lock in their bracket picks before that draw drops later this week.
