US Open 2026: The Most Anticipated Second-Round Matches

New York, a late summer day, Flushing Meadows is still wet from the relentless rain. Day 4 of the 2026 US Open will witness a packed schedule with 14 postponed first-round matches and 32 second-round matches. But what excites fans is not the number of matches, but the quality of the matchups waiting ahead. The early exit of Novak Djokovic in the opening round has created a major shock, altering the tournament's landscape. The top seeds now face greater pressure, while young players and those returning from injury have a chance to shine. The atmosphere in the locker rooms these days has a different kind of tension – I felt it standing on the sidelines at the Westchester practice courts, where players quietly prepare for their own battles. Ben Shelton, with his powerful serve and aggressive baseline game, overcame a slow start against Tallon Griekspoor in the first round. He has always been a tough opponent on New York's hard courts. But Hubert Hurkacz, who just returned to the top 50 after a long battle with injuries, is a completely different challenge. The Pole has an equally big serve and the ability to end points quickly. I have followed Hurkacz for years, and one thing I've noticed: when he is confident, his game becomes remarkably coherent. However, fitness remains a big question mark after his recurring injuries. If the match goes long, the advantage will shift to Shelton – the American is younger, stronger, and in stable form. The match between Felix Auger-Aliassime and Karen Khachanov promises to be one of the most mentally taxing contests of the second round. Auger-Aliassime, the third seed, did not have his best performance in the opening round, dropping a set to Rinky Hijikata. But his 17 aces are a positive sign. The issue lies in his ability to convert break points and the effectiveness of his second serve – elements he needs to improve to overcome an experienced opponent like Khachanov. The Russian reached the US Open semifinals in 2026 but has never advanced past the second round in New York since. His recent form has been inconsistent, but his power and finishing ability remain a constant threat. I recall Khachanov's match in Paris last year – when he has a good day, no one can stop him. Carlos Alcaraz is gradually finding his rhythm after injury. His impressive performance against Roman Safiullin shows the defending champion remains dangerous. But Jaime Faria, the Portuguese who just survived a grueling five-set battle with Jenson Brooksby, could be a tougher test. Alcaraz is still the clear favorite, but his lack of match practice could give Faria hope. Based on my experience following matches, young players like Faria often perform well when they have nothing to lose. Then there is a match I believe will bring the most emotion: Gael Monfils, at 40, entering the final year of his career. His performance against Adolfo Daniel Vallejos Alvarez in the first round was a work of art – impossible shots, unique celebrations, creating an atmosphere only the Frenchman can. But Learner Tien, the 14th seed and home hope, will be a completely different challenge. Tien won easily against Nuno Borges in the first round, and his freshness will be a key weapon in what could be a long match. Monfils will use his experience and long reach, but I believe Tien's endurance will help him stay alive on home soil. What I've observed in recent days at Flushing Meadows is a subtle shift in how players approach the tournament. Gone is the absolute confidence of top seeds, replaced by caution and calculation. With Djokovic gone, the door is wider open than ever. But as I often tell my colleagues: the ball rolls by, the people stay. Those who remain calm and focused will be the ones to advance. Looking back at the journey, I realize this US Open is not just about the stars, but about those who dare to dream. When the court lights come on for Day 4, we will have our answers. Before the matches begin, listen – there is a heartbeat resonating from deep within the tournament.