Stars to Watch at US Open 2025 – Women’s Singles Preview

The final Grand Slam of the year is upon us — the 2025 US Open is set to electrify New York City once again. With tennis fans around the world tuning in, the women’s singles draw promises high drama, fierce competition, and unforgettable performances.

Here’s a deep dive into the top 15 seeds in the women’s draw — these are the athletes you’ll want to keep your eyes on as the tournament kicks off:

1. Aryna Sabalenka 🇧🇾

(Neutral Athlete) – World No. 1 & Defending Champion

Sabalenka returns to Flushing Meadows not only as the top seed but also as the defending champion. Known for her thunderous serve and aggressive groundstrokes, the Belarusian has been a dominant force all season. Her power-based game thrives on the hard courts, and she’ll be determined to claim back-to-back US Open titles — a feat not achieved since Serena Williams in 2014.

2. Coco Gauff 🇺🇸

(USA) – American Favorite & 2023 Champion

New York will erupt with energy whenever Gauff steps on court. The 2023 US Open champion, still just 21, continues to be the face of American tennis. Her court coverage, net play, and ever-growing confidence make her a serious contender for another run at the title on home soil.

3. Iga Swiatek 🇵🇱

(Poland) – Six-Time Grand Slam Champion

The former World No. 1 has already proven herself across surfaces, but the US Open crown has eluded her. Swiatek’s lethal topspin forehand, mental toughness, and strategic brilliance make her a nightmare draw. After a semifinal appearance in 2024, she’s eyeing the big prize this year.

4. Jessica Pegula 🇺🇸

(USA) – Five-Time Grand Slam Quarterfinalist and One-Time US Open Finalist

A steady performer and fan favorite, Pegula has become a fixture in Grand Slam quarterfinals. Her experience, especially under pressure, could finally push her past the last eight. With the crowd behind her, this could be the breakthrough US Open she’s long deserved.

5. Mirra Andreeva 🇷🇺

(Neutral Athlete) – Teen Phenom on the Rise

Still a teenager, Andreeva has wowed fans with maturity beyond her years. With her incredible touch, sharp angles, and fearless play, she’s not just a future star — she’s already a threat to win it all. The US Open may well witness her grand slam breakout.

6. Qinwen Zheng 🇨🇳 (Withdrawn)

(China) – Rising Asian Star and Paris 2024 Olympics Gold Medallist

Though she has withdrawn from the tournament due to injury, Zheng’s recent rise cannot be ignored. The powerful Chinese player had been building serious momentum, and fans will eagerly await her return in future events.

7. Amanda Anisimova 🇺🇸

(USA) – Comeback Contender and 2025 Wimbledon Finalist

Once touted as the next big thing, Anisimova is climbing back up the rankings after a challenging stretch. With clean ball striking and sharp instincts, she’s showing flashes of her former brilliance — and what better stage than the US Open to make a full return?

8. Madison Keys 🇺🇸

(USA) – 2025 Australian Open Champion, 2017 US Open Finalist & Fan Favorite

A beloved veteran of the tour, Keys is no stranger to Arthur Ashe Stadium. Her explosive game, particularly on hard courts, makes her a dangerous opponent for anyone. She’s already made deep runs here and has the tools to do it again.

9. Jasmine Paolini 🇮🇹

(Italy) – 2024 Roland Garros and Wimbledon Finalist

Paolini has taken major strides in her career recently, highlighted by a run to the French Open final. Her movement, mental resilience, and improved power game could see her go deep in New York — a surface where she’s rapidly improving.

10. Paula Badosa 🇪🇸

(Spain) – Former Top 5 Player

Returning from injury struggles, Badosa is looking sharp again. Her all-court game and athleticism once made her a world-beater, and if fully fit, she’s a serious dark horse this year.

11. Emma Navarro 🇺🇸

(USA) – The Quiet American Riser

Navarro may not be a household name yet, but her steady rise up the rankings has turned heads. Known for her baseline consistency and calm demeanor, she could quietly dismantle higher-ranked opponents and shake up the draw.

12. Karolina Muchova 🇨🇿

(Czech Republic) – Versatile Slam Performer

When healthy, Muchova is one of the most complete players on tour. Her variety, touch, and ability to adapt to any opponent makes her a dangerous floater in the draw. Keep an eye on this crafty Czech.

13. Elena Rybakina 🇰🇿

(Kazakhstan) – Wimbledon Champion 2022

Rybakina brings big-match experience and one of the biggest serves on tour. Though grass is her preferred surface, her flat power game translates well to hard courts. A deep run at the US Open is well within her grasp.

14. Elina Svitolina 🇺🇦

(Ukraine) – Tour Veteran with a Warrior Spirit

Svitolina’s inspiring comeback journey after motherhood continues to be one of the best stories in tennis. A consistent second-week performer at Slams, she’s armed with experience, grit, and relentless defense.

15. Petra Kvitova 🇨🇿

(Czech Republic) – Two-Time Wimbledon Champion

A true veteran, Kvitova is always a threat. While injuries have limited her schedule, her lefty power and ability to take time away from opponents make her a dangerous matchup — especially in early rounds.

Honorable Mentions:

• Diana Shnaider (RUS) – Next-gen name making big moves.
• Ekaterina Alexandrova (RUS) – Inconsistent but capable.
• Liudmila Samsonova (RUS) – Dangerous on her day.
• Daria Kasatkina (AUS) – Smart, tactical, and tough to beat.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 US Open Women’s Singles is poised to deliver yet another classic edition of tennis brilliance. Whether you’re rooting for the home favorites like Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula, or watching global stars like Sabalenka, Swiatek, and Rybakina, the draw is stacked with elite talent and compelling storylines.

As the lights shine on New York, the pressure is on — but for these top 15 women, it’s just another chance to chase greatness.

Here is a table of the top 32 women’s singles players who will play in the 2025 US Open.