Champions Sabalenka, Swiatek, Gauff ready to face rising talent at US Open

NEW YORK :A clash of generations and styles will be on display when the U.S. Open kicks off on Sunday, with past and present champions Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff leading the field in a wide open women's draw.

The established order of world tennis will be eager to pull rank when they collide with a host of emerging talent at Flushing Meadows, where no woman has claimed back-to-back titles since Serena Williams lifted the trophy for a sixth time in 2014.

With rising stars such as Victoria Mboko and Mirra Andreeva crashing the party, and seasoned contenders fine-tuning their tactics, fans will be in for a rollercoaster ride in New York.

Defending champion Sabalenka has triumphed in Brisbane, Miami and Madrid this season but frustratingly has failed to add to her Grand Slam haul, losing to Madison Keys in the Australian Open final and to Gauff in the Roland Garros showpiece.

"She's gotten to the end of these big tournaments, but the nerves have got in the way," ESPN commentator Mary Joe Fernandez said during a conference call.

"We'll see if mentally she puts it together. If she plays well, obviously look out."

With her number one ranking on the line, Sabalenka's biggest threat could be 2022 winner Swiatek, who ruthlessly demolished Amanda Anisimova 6-0 6-0 in the Wimbledon final and won the Cincinnati tune-up tournament.

It has been a welcome return to form for six-time major winner Swiatek, who had failed to reach a Grand Slam final for over 12 months before her triumphant run at the All England Club.

"Swiatek for me is the one to beat. I wouldn't have said that before Wimbledon," said Fernandez.

"For her to get her mojo back, get her game back, her extreme grips, the way she moves, I think has changed everything.