Missing stars, a farewell, prize money: everything about the US Open

Which stars are missing? The names are prominent and the reasons for their absence are varied. Roger Federer continues to work on his fitness after his knee operation, and the tournament also came too early for Alexander Zverev after his ankle injury in the semi-finals at the French Open. Meanwhile, Angelique Kerber revealed her baby secret shortly before the start of the tournament and is taking a break from pregnancy. And Wimbledon winner Novak Djokovic will miss the US Open due to his refusal to be vaccinated.

The big absentee: Novak Djokovic © ANSA / ANDREJ CUKIC

Why is Djokovic not allowed to enter the country? Because he doesn't want to give himself the spades. With a few exceptions, proof of corona vaccination is mandatory to enter the USA; there are no special regulations for top athletes. He absolutely wanted to avoid chaos like at the Australian Open at the beginning of the year, when the 21-time Grand Slam tournament winner was expelled from the country after political intervention and a court dispute. Hence the withdrawal shortly before the draw on Thursday.

Who should you pay particular attention to? Serena Williams. After her recent retirement announcement, what many consider to be the best tennis player in history wants to receive the applause of her home audience one last time. Monday's duel against Danka Kovinic, probably in the night session, could be her last appearance. It is unlikely that Williams will be able to triumph again at the place where she won her first of 1999 Grand Slam titles in 23. “But I’ll try,” promises the 40-year-old.

Wants to defend his title: Daniil Medvedev © APA/afp / KENA BETANCUR

Who are the favorites? Rafael Nadal is actually the top contender for the title in this field, but his recent comeback after the abdominal muscle injury from the Wimbledon semi-finals failed. The Russian defending champion Daniil Medvedev, the Spanish shooting star Carlos Alcaraz and the Greek all-rounder Stefanos Tsitsipas also fancy their chances. Among the women, defending champion Emma Raducanu, world number one Iga Swiatek, local hero Coco Gauff and Simona Halep are highly regarded.

Why are Russians and Belarusians there again? The most recent Grand Slam exclusion only applied to the Wimbledon tournament; the organizers of the US Open are allowing Russian and Belarusian athletes to take part despite the war of aggression in Ukraine. That's why, unlike in London, world ranking points will be awarded again.

How much is the prize money? With a total of over 60 million US dollars, the organizers are paying out record prize money. The winner and the female winner alone will each receive $2,6 million.

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Missing stars, a farewell, prize money: everything about the US Open

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