The US Open enters its second week with massive fourth-round clashes featuring Aryna Sabalenka and Carlos Alcaraz. The race for the quarter-finals intensifies at Flushing Meadows.
- Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka seeks a historic third consecutive US Open title.
- Carlos Alcaraz battles American Tommy Paul in pursuit of his eighth Grand Slam.
- High-profile matchups include Ben Shelton vs. Stefanos Tsitsipas and Daniil Medvedev vs. Frances Tiafoe.
The 2026 US Open transitions into its decisive second week this Sunday, September 6, as the tournament moves into the fourth round. The atmosphere at Flushing Meadows is electric, with the Round of 16 featuring a lineup of heavyweights fighting for a spot in the final eight.
In the women's draw, top seed Aryna Sabalenka is on a mission to make history. The Belarusian star is chasing an unprecedented third consecutive US Open crown. Her path involves a clash with American Taylor Townsend, who will undoubtedly be fueled by the intense support of the home crowd at Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the fourth round is often where the physical toll of a Grand Slam begins to manifest. For top seeds like Sabalenka and Alcaraz, maintaining intensity while navigating the tactical variety of players like Townsend and Paul is crucial for long-term tournament survival.
The transition to the second week of a Grand Slam separates the contenders from the true champions.
On the men's side, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz faces a significant test against the 20th-seeded American Tommy Paul. As Alcaraz aims for his eighth Grand Slam title, Paul’s recent momentum makes this one of the most anticipated matches of the day. Additionally, American sensation Ben Shelton will lock horns with Stefanos Tsitsipas in a clash of power and precision.
The schedule is packed with further intrigue, including 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev facing off against Frances Tiafoe. The women's bracket also remains wide open, with Jessica Pegula and Emma Navarro looking to solidify their status among the elite.
| Player | Seed | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| Aryna Sabalenka | [1] | Taylor Townsend |
| Carlos Alcaraz | [2] | Tommy Paul |
| Ben Shelton | [8] | Stefanos Tsitsipas |
| Daniil Medvedev | [7] | Frances Tiafoe |
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: Which stadium will host the biggest matches?
Answer: The marquee matches, including Alcaraz and Sabalenka, are scheduled for the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium.
Question 2: Is this the quarter-final round?
Answer: No, this is the fourth round (Round of 16). Winners will advance to the quarter-finals.
