The drama at the US Open is heating up, and Thursday promises another thrilling day of world-class tennis under the New York lights. British rising star Jacob Fearnley is set for the biggest test of his career so far when he takes on third seed and 2020 finalist Alexander Zverev on Louis Armstrong Stadium.
Fearnley’s Midnight Challenge
Fans in the UK will need to stay up late for this one, with Fearnley’s second-round showdown scheduled to start at midnight UK time. The 22-year-old Brit has impressed on his Grand Slam debut, showing composure and shot-making ability well beyond his years. But facing Zverev one of the game’s most experienced and dangerous hard-court players will be a true baptism of fire.
Zverev, who came within a few points of winning the US Open in 2020, is renowned for his thunderous serve and powerful groundstrokes. He enters the match as the heavy favourite, but Fearnley will be looking to ride the momentum of his breakthrough season and push the German to the limit. The clash also kicks off the highly anticipated night session on Armstrong, guaranteeing a lively atmosphere as New Yorkers settle in for a marathon evening of tennis.
Spotlight on the Women’s Draw
Over on Arthur Ashe Stadium, American favourite Coco Gauff takes centre stage in the evening session. The defending champion and one of the faces of the new generation of tennis will face Croatia’s Donna Vekic in what promises to be a testing second-round encounter.
Gauff, who lifted her maiden Grand Slam title in New York last year, is no stranger to the pressure of the Ashe crowd. With her athleticism and growing maturity, she is once again a strong contender to go deep in the tournament. Vekic, however, brings plenty of experience and a big-hitting game that could trouble the American if she finds her rhythm early.
Meanwhile, world No 1 Iga Swiatek continues her campaign with her trademark mix of relentless intensity and clinical shot selection. The Polish star is hunting for her first US Open crown and will look to maintain her dominance as she navigates the early rounds.
Sinner’s Title Charge Continues
On the men’s side, top seed Jannik Sinner is also back in action. The Italian, who has been in scintillating form this season, is widely tipped as a frontrunner for the title. With his laser-like baseline game and improved mental toughness, Sinner is chasing his second Slam of the year and a maiden triumph in New York.
Where to Watch
The US Open is live across Sky Sports Tennis and Sky Sports+, with coverage also available on the streaming service NOW and the Sky Sports app. Fans can catch every match until the conclusion of the tournament on Sunday, September 7.