The US Open 2024 kicks off with a mouth-watering first-round clash that has the tennis world buzzing. Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka is set to face the returning American talent, Amanda Anisimova, in a match that feels more like a late-stage final than an opening encounter.
A Tale of Two Comebacks
Both players arrive at Flushing Meadows with compelling narratives. Naomi Osaka, a former World No. 1 and two-time US Open champion, is continuing her own inspiring return to the tour after becoming a mother. Her powerful baseline game, built around a devastating serve and ferocious forehand, is slowly returning to its championship level.
Across the net stands Amanda Anisimova, whose career was put on hold due to mental fatigue and burnout. The 22-year-old American, once ranked as high as World No. 21, took an indefinite hiatus from the sport. Her comeback has been a quiet but steady process, and she arrives in New York with a protected ranking, ready to test her game against the very best.
Head-to-Head and Playing Styles
History adds another layer of intrigue to this matchup. The two have met twice before on the WTA Tour, with Anisimova surprisingly winning both encounters in straight sets. These victories came on clay in Madrid and on grass in Birmingham, proving she has the tools to disrupt Osaka's rhythm.
This will be their first meeting on a hard court, Osaka's favoured surface. The match presents a classic contrast in styles: Osaka's raw power versus Anisimova's clean, aggressive ball-striking and one of the best backhands in the women's game. The outcome will likely hinge on who can control the centre of the court and execute under the bright lights of Arthur Ashe Stadium.
US Open 2024 Match Schedule & How to Watch
The blockbuster match is scheduled for Day 1 of the US Open, Monday, August 26th. It will be played as the first night session match on the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium court. The start time is set for approximately 7:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 a.m. BST (Tuesday morning UK time).
Viewers in the United Kingdom can catch all the action live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Tennis. Coverage of the night session begins at 11:30 p.m. BST on Monday evening.
Expert Prediction & Analysis
This is perhaps the most unpredictable match of the first round. While Anisimova holds a perfect 2-0 record against Osaka, the context is entirely different now. The slow hard courts of New York will give Osaka more time to set up for her powerful shots.
However, Anisimova's flat groundstrokes can rush Osaka and prevent her from dominating rallies. The key for Osaka will be to serve big and use her forehand to dictate play early. For Anisimova, weathering the initial storm and using her precise backhand to find angles will be crucial.
Prediction: Despite the past results, Osaka's experience and proven success on this stage make her a slight favourite. Expect a fiercely contested, three-set battle with Osaka's firepower ultimately proving the difference. Osaka to win in 3 sets.
