There is no Slam quite like a home Slam – as many players who’ve either ridden the wave of support to unexpected glory, or crumbled under the weight of expectation before local crowds, can attest.
As first-round matches were completed at Flushing Meadows, American stars happily added to the tournament’s famously hyped atmosphere with winning starts.
Of the 23 American men in the 2025 main draw, 11 progressed to round two. Three of those victories came in all-American openers, highlighting pleasing depth in the men’s ranks.
While Madison Keys – the AO 2025 champion and No.6 seed in New York – suffered an upset loss to world No.82 Renata Zarazua, and Venus Williams’ comeback was thwarted by Karolina Muchova, nine of 25 American women advanced to the second round.
For fans hoping to see a homegrown champion in just under a fortnight, recent history provides encouraging signs.