Norwegian tennis star, world No. 2 peak, 14 ATP titles
Aryna Sabalenka has moved into the US Open fourth round after a straight-sets win over Kamilla Rakhimova, while she has raised concerns about the smell of cannabis on court. The scent around Flushing Meadows is linked to nearby Corona Park. Sabalenka has maintained focus with a strong serve, while the sport debates on-site smoking rules and fan behavior.
The US Open has announced Serena Williams will partner Carlos Alcaraz in the mixed doubles main draw. The pair will compete in the revamped two-day, 16-team format with a $1 million prize. Williams is not planning singles, while Alcaraz is returning from a right wrist injury.
Carlos Alcaraz has returned from a wrist injury to play in the US Open, teaming with Serena Williams in the mixed doubles. The news follows his four-month absence from singles and Williams’ comeback after a hiatus. The event adds star power to the Open, with other high-profile partnerships and a large field across both singles and doubles.
At the US Open, Karolína Muchová and Jakub Menšík have won the mixed doubles title, with a renewed emphasis on singles players amid the revamped format. The event drew big crowds and featured high-profile appearances, including Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz, though several doubles specialists exited early.
Wawrinka has been granted a wild-card entry to the 2026 US Open after Patrick Kypson withdrew, allowing the 41-year-old to bid farewell on tennis’ biggest stage in New York.