Heather Watson has kept her hopes alive for a first US Open main-draw appearance in five years, winning her first-round qualifying match in New York. The 34-year-old defeated sixth seed Claire Liu 4-6 6-2 6-4.
In the men's singles qualifying, Toby Samuel, Jacob Fearnley, Billy Harris, and Harry Wendelken all progressed. Samuel fought back to win against Francesco Maestrelli, setting up a meeting with fellow Briton Harris, who beat Gonzalo Bueno. Fearnley claimed victory over Roberto Carballes Baena, while Wendelken overcame Stefano Travaglia.
Meanwhile, Britons Henry Patten and Lloyd Glasspool have advanced in the mixed doubles competition. Patten and Katerina Siniakova will take on 24-time major winner Novak Djokovic and top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka. Glasspool and Erin Routliffe are set to face 23-time Grand Slam singles champion Serena Williams and seven-time major winner Carlos Alcaraz.
Players in singles qualifying must win three rounds to reach the main draw, which is scheduled to begin on Sunday. Carlos Alcaraz will be playing his first match in four months, and Serena Williams is returning to the sport after a four-year absence.