Aryna Sabalenka Defends US Open Title Over Rebeka Masarova

Aryna Sabalenka began her 2025 US Open title defense with a 7-5, 6-1 victory over Rebeka Masarova, showing growing confidence and working on improving her net skills with coach Max Mirnyi's support. Despite her strong start, former world No. 1 Andy Roddick expressed doubts about Sabalenka's chances, favoring Elena Rybakina to reach the semifinals in a head-to-head comparison, while humorously noting his poor record picking Sabalenka to win Grand Slams this year. Sabalenka, who has three Grand Slam titles and was a finalist at the Australian and French Opens this season, sees the US Open as her last chance for a major title in 2025. Meanwhile, Novak Djokovic, preparing for the US Open at age 38, was called the 'third favorite' by Roddick, who praised Djokovic's remarkable form despite recent injuries and early losses earlier in the season. The US Open, starting August 24 at Flushing Meadows, will feature top players like Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner defending their titles amid high anticipation. These perspectives highlight the competitive dynamics and key players to watch in this year's Grand Slam tournament.