US Open 2026: Second Round – Where Stories Are Continued

When Novak Djokovic fell in the opening round, Arthur Ashe Stadium seemed to hold its breath. Not because of the shock of a seed being eliminated, but because of the void he left – a void that young players are eager to fill. I sat in a corner of the stands, where I could see raindrops falling on the court, and I realized that this year's US Open is not just a tournament, but a story of transition. On September 1, heavy rain caused many first-round matches to be postponed. Therefore, the fourth day of the 2026 US Open will feature 14 remaining first-round matches along with 32 second-round matches. With Djokovic out early and many quality players unseeded due to injuries, the second round promises exciting battles. From my years of following matches, I know that such contests often bring unpredictable surprises. The first notable match is between Ben Shelton and Hubert Hurkacz. Shelton overcame Tallon Griekspoor in the first round after a slow start. He possesses a powerful serve and an aggressive baseline game, which has made him a tough opponent in New York. Hurkacz, the Pole, also has a big serve and the ability to keep points short. He has returned to the top 50 and arrives with confidence after beating Damir Dzumhur. However, Hurkacz's injury struggles could be a weakness if the match goes long. I predict Shelton will win in five sets, but it won't be easy. Next is the match between third seed Felix Auger-Aliassime and Karen Khachanov. Auger-Aliassime was not at his best in the first round, dropping a set to Rinky Hijikata, but his 17 aces offer encouragement. He needs to be more clinical on break points and improve his second serve against a dangerous opponent. Khachanov has plenty of big-stage experience, reaching the US Open semifinals in 2026, though he hasn't progressed beyond the second round since. The Russian's recent form is inconsistent, but his power and ability to strike through opponents could make this a difficult night for Auger-Aliassime. I lean towards Khachanov winning in five sets, as his experience can turn the tide. Carlos Alcaraz is making a comeback and defending his title. He impressed against Roman Safiullin, but Jaime Faria could be a sterner test if he carries confidence from a grueling win over Jenson Brooksby. Alcaraz is the clear favorite, yet his lack of match practice could give Faria hope. The Portuguese is in good form and has shown he can compete under pressure after a five-set battle. I still believe Alcaraz will win, but it might take five sets to find his best rhythm. Finally, the match between Gael Monfils and Learner Tien promises plenty of emotion. Monfils, at 40, is in his farewell year. His performance against Adolfo Daniel Vallejos Alvarez was breathtaking, with inspired shots and trademark celebrations. However, Tien, the 14th seed, won't be easy. The young American had a comfortable win over Nuno Borges. While Monfils will use his long levers and experience, I think Tien's freshness and endurance will help him stay alive at his home Slam. My prediction is Tien in five sets. Overall, this second round is not just about matches. It's where stories are continued, where the young seek to assert themselves and the old seek a beautiful goodbye. An empty stadium lacks not only noise – it lacks the story being told. But when the rain stops and the ball rolls, everything begins again. A contrarian view: we often think young players will win due to fitness, but the experience of Monfils or Khachanov could be decisive. Don't rush to bet on favorites. Look at how they handle pressure in key moments. Football has meaning, and tennis does too – it's not just shots, but patience and intelligence. When the stands are empty, we hear the breath of the match more clearly. And in those breaths, we see the future of tennis taking shape. Will my predictions be accurate? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the 2026 US Open will be a memorable edition, where old legends and new stars write history together.