Carlos Alcaraz has successfully navigated his return to the US Open, securing a straight-sets victory over Roman Safiullin. The Spaniard, defending his title after a four-month absence due to a wrist injury, won 6-4 6-4 6-4 on Arthur Ashe Stadium. Alcaraz expressed his happiness to compete again, despite some initial doubts about his physical endurance.
Aryna Sabalenka also commenced her title defence and her quest to maintain the world number one spot with a solid 6-2 6-4 win against Camila Osorio. Sabalenka's recent form has allowed Elena Rybakina to close the gap, with only 434 points separating them. Sabalenka is set to face Russian qualifier Polina Iatcenko in the second round.
Elsewhere, last year's runner-up Amanda Anisimova advanced with a 6-1 6-3 victory over Ashlyn Krueger. American Emma Navarro also progressed in a three-set match against Lois Boisson.