Sinner out, Alcaraz back, battling Djokovic: US Open’s Big 3 storylines

The men's singles tennis landscape has undergone significant shifts since Carlos Alcaraz's departure last year. Currently ranked third in the world, Alcaraz has relinquished the top spot to Jannik Sinner. However, Zverev, who once faced a six-year losing streak at Grand Slam finals, has reversed this trend. Meanwhile, Flavio Cobolli has climbed from 14th to sixth in the rankings.

Cobolli, however, narrowly missed a top-four seeding at the upcoming US Open, allowing Djokovic to avoid playing him before the semifinals. With Sinner out, Djokovic, Sinner, and Alcaraz all face health issues. Djokovic battles the wear and tear from 22 years of tennis, while Sinner suffers from a right knee injury and Alcaraz returns from a four-month layoff due to tenosynovitis.

Alcaraz, paired with Serena Williams for the US Open's mixed doubles showcase, has been working on his recovery with a strong return to training in July. Despite his wrist injury, Alcaraz is optimistic about his performance at the US Open, which could provide a good foundation for his singles title defense. The mixed doubles competition features a star-studded roster, including Djokovic, Williams, Sabalenka, Swiatek, Ruud, Pegula, Fritz, and Monfils.

The event, primarily an exhibition, will consist of best-of-three-set matches and conclude with a final played to six games using no-ad scoring and tie-breaks at six-all.