Five Players to Watch at the 2023 U.S. Open: Talent, Experience, and Rising Stars

As the excitement builds for the 2023 U.S. Open at Flushing Meadows, tennis enthusiasts are eager to see how both seasoned champions and emerging talents perform on the court. Here’s a closer look at five remarkable women to keep an eye on at this year’s tournament.

1. Coco Gauff: The Rising Star with Bold Changes

Coco Gauff, the reigning U.S. Open champion, has had a mixed season. With double faults plaguing her title defense last year, she recently made a significant decision to improve her game by switching coaches. After a challenging season marked by a WTA-high 320 double faults, Gauff initially replaced coach Brad Gilbert with Matthew Daly but has made another bold move by bringing in biomechanics expert Gavin MacMillan shortly before the tournament.

• Key Stats:
  • 2023 U.S. Open Champion
  • WTA’s highest number of double faults this season

2. Jessica Pegula: The Home-Bound Hopeful

Jessica Pegula, ranked fourth in the world and last year’s runner-up, returns to Flushing Meadows looking to find her form. The New York native endured early exits at both the French Open and Wimbledon, prompting questions about her readiness for her home Slam.

• Yearly Titles: Two victories at Austin and Charleston
• Quote: “I don’t think it gets much better than Ashe, a night match just with the energy and the atmosphere," Pegula stated, capturing the essence of playing in the New York City vibe.

3. Iga Swiatek: The Six-Time Champion

Iga Swiatek, a six-time Grand Slam champion, is back in business as she heads into the U.S. Open. After a year without a major title, she recently bounced back with a commanding performance at Wimbledon, dropping just a single set in the tournament and following it up with success in Cincinnati.

• Recent Performance: Strong showing in Wimbledon and Cincinnati

4. Venus Williams: The Timeless Icon

At 45 years old, Venus Williams is set to make U.S. Open history, marking her as the oldest singles player since Renée Richards in 1981. Despite being ranked 654th in the WTA singles, the tennis legend received a wild card for her 25th singles appearance at the Open. Attentions are turning from her age to her legacy as an athlete.

• Historic Milestone: Oldest singles player since 1981

5. Victoria Mboko: The Young Phenomenon

On the opposite end of the age spectrum is Victoria Mboko, an 18-year-old sensation from Canada. Making headlines after defeating Grand Slam champions such as Gauff and Naomi Osaka, she clinched her first WTA 1000 title in Montreal. Mboko is making her main draw debut at the U.S. Open this year, and expectations are high.

• Notable Wins: Defeated Gauff, Osaka, Sofia Kenin, and Elena Rybakina

Summary

The 2023 U.S. Open promises thrilling matchups featuring a mix of experienced icons and rising stars. As players like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula look to reclaim their earlier forms, others like Iga Swiatek and Venus Williams will aim to further cement their legacies. Meanwhile, Victoria Mboko is set to showcase her talent on one of the biggest stages in tennis.

Stay tuned for an exciting tournament filled with passion, skill, and unforgettable moments. For more insights into the U.S. Open, visit USTA.