2025 U.S. Open Innovates with Expanded Format and Intense Competition

The 2025 U.S. Open, marking its 145th edition, has introduced significant changes, including a 15-day format and a revamped mixed doubles competition, while delivering compelling narratives of resilience and unexpected upsets.

This year's tournament commenced on August 18 and is scheduled to conclude on September 7 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in New York City. Notably, the event has expanded to a 15-day schedule, starting on a Sunday, aligning with the formats of the French and Australian Opens. This adjustment aims to enhance player recovery times and accommodate broader global viewership.

Defending champions Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka are competing to retain their titles. Sinner, the world No. 1, demonstrated remarkable resilience by overcoming a first-set loss to Denis Shapovalov, ultimately winning 5-7, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3. This victory extended his unbeaten streak at hardcourt Grand Slams to 24 matches. Reflecting on the match, Sinner acknowledged Shapovalov's strong start and emphasized the importance of staying composed under pressure.

In the women's draw, Iga Świątek showcased her tenacity by overcoming a 5-1 deficit in the opening set against Anna Kalinskaya, ultimately winning 7-6(2), 6-4. This victory underscores her problem-solving abilities under pressure. Additionally, Naomi Osaka advanced to the fourth round for the first time in four years after defeating Daria Kasatkina 6-0, 4-6, 6-3. This sets up a highly anticipated match against third seed Coco Gauff, who recently defeated Magdalena Frech.

The tournament has also seen notable upsets, such as world No. 3 Alexander Zverev's loss to Felix Auger-Aliassime. The Canadian delivered a stunning performance by defeating Zverev in four sets: 4-6, 7-6(7), 6-4, 6-4. This victory marks his return to the U.S. Open fourth round since his 2021 semi-final appearance. In women's play, Beatriz Haddad Maia secured a decisive victory over Maria Sakkari to reach the fourth round.

This year's U.S. Open features a new mixed doubles format, played over two days before the singles action. The competition includes 16 teams, with matches held in Arthur Ashe and Louis Armstrong Stadiums. The changes have generated significant attention, with many praising the approach for raising the profile of mixed doubles. Tennis legend Billie Jean King endorsed the revamped format, highlighting its potential to bring more excitement and emotion to the event.

In the United States, the U.S. Open is being broadcast on ESPN, ESPN2, and ABC, with matches starting daily at 11 a.m. EDT. This extensive coverage ensures fans have access to live matches and highlights throughout the tournament.

The 2025 U.S. Open theme is “75 years of breaking barriers,” celebrating Althea Gibson, the first Black athlete to win a Grand Slam. An exhibition blending photographs, audio stories, and historic memorabilia honors Gibson’s enduring influence in tennis and social justice.

As the tournament progresses, the combination of format innovations, standout performances, and cultural celebrations continues to captivate audiences, reinforcing the U.S. Open's status as a premier event in the tennis calendar.