Sinner out, Alcaraz shaky, Sabalenka struggling: the US Open just got wide open

The US Open was supposed to be a coronation. Jannik Sinner, the world No. 1 and reigning Australian Open champion, arrived in New York as the clear favorite to claim his second Grand Slam of the year. Carlos Alcaraz, the two-time major winner, was right behind him, fresh off a French Open and Wimbledon double that had everyone talking about a new era of men's tennis. Aryna Sabalenka, the two-time Australian Open champion, was the heavy favorite on the women's side, looking to add a second US Open title to her resume. Then, in the span of a few days, the script fell apart. Sinner is out of the tournament entirely, Alcaraz is just back from an injury that has limited his preparation, and Sabalenka is struggling with her form. The result is a US Open that feels genuinely open for the first time in years, with no single player dominating the conversation and a field full of contenders who suddenly believe they have a real shot.