US Open: Alcaraz wins on return, aggressive Sabalenka advances

Defending US Open men's champion Carlos Alcaraz returned from a 139-day absence due to a wrist injury, defeating Russian Roman Safiullin 6-4, 6-4, 6-4 in the first round at Arthur Ashe Stadium on September 1, 2026. Women's defending champion Aryna Sabalenka also advanced to the second round on the same day. Both champions won in straight sets in their opening matches of the tournament.