Top contenders Gauff, Zeverev face stern tests against familiar foes in US Open

On Thursday, the second round of the U.S. Open continues, with top seeds Coco Gauff, Alexander Zverev and Felix Auger-Aliassime facing off against opponents who have previously challenged them. Gauff will make her second appearance at Flushing Meadows, aiming to secure her second title. She will take on former quarter-finalist Paula Badosa, who has won five out of their last eight meetings.

Badosa, a former world number two, has slipped to 87th in the WTA rankings due to multiple injuries but is now healthy again. Gauff hopes her improved serve and consistency, which led her to reach the Wimbledon semi-finals, will help her overcome this familiar foe.

Zverev, having the best year of his tennis career, won his first Grand Slam at the French Open and reached the Wimbledon final. However, his near five-hour match against Lorenzo Sonego revealed that he still has room for improvement. Zverev will face Quentin Halys, who previously tested him in both their meetings, with Zverev winning both times. Halys has never reached the second round at the U.S. Open before.

World No. 4 Auger-Aliassime, who reached the quarter-finals at both the French Open and Wimbledon this year, will face Karen Khachanov. Khachanov, who won two of their previous four meetings, is expected to have an advantage over the Canadian.