This weekend, the US Open in New York reaches its climax, with the top four players in the men's and women's competitions determined. Meanwhile, the absence of world number one, Jannik Sinner, and the physical issues of Carlos Alcaraz, who exited in the quarterfinals, have left the men's draw wide open.
Women's Battle: Pegula vs. Sabalenka
Alexander Zverev is now considered the main contender, but he must first get past Karen Khachanov. In the women's section, we are witnessing a star-studded competition; where the top four seeds have reached the semifinals for the first time since Wimbledon 2009. The first battle is between Aryna Sabalenka (seed number one) and Jessica Pegula (seed number three). These two players have previously competed in New York, with Sabalenka winning the last two encounters. However, Pegula has identified Sabalenka's weaknesses with two victories in their last three meetings.
Pegula could create a surprise here, but this match is expected to be extremely tough and close. Prediction: Pegula wins in three sets.
Men's Battle: Zverev and Shelton in the Arena
In the other men's semifinal, Alexander Zverev (seed number one) faces Karen Khachanov. Zverev has reached all four Grand Slam semifinals this year and, as the only remaining Grand Slam winner in the men's draw, is looking for his second title. He leads in their head-to-head encounters with Khachanov, and if successful, he will have a good chance of winning the championship. Prediction: Zverev wins in four sets.
Finally, the clash between Frances Tiafoe (seed number 11) and Ben Shelton (seed number 8) will be one of the most exciting matches. These two American players will strive to reach the final, and given that Shelton leads in their head-to-head record, he seems to have the upper hand. Prediction: Shelton wins in five sets.
