2026 US Open Tennis: Can Shelton finally end the drought for the USA? Rybakina-Sabalenka Part 2 in final this year

A possible American breakthrough, a Sabalenka three-peat, and two finals that could swing on a single break of serve. Primo and Dr Dan break down the biggest US Open storylines, the matchups that matter most, and the pressure points that could decide both championships.The men’s side has a real chance to end a 23-year drought, but the path is anything but simple. Ben Shelton’s transformation from raw shotmaker to complete threat is on full display after taking out Carlos Alcaraz and Frances Tiafoe, while Alexander Zverev arrives with major-final experience, a bigger game, and a tactical edge that could test Shelton’s growth in ways he has never faced before. On the women’s side, Aryna Sabalenka and Elena Rybakina bring power, firepower, and history into one of the most compelling finals of the tournament. Sabalenka is chasing a rare third straight US Open title, Rybakina is battling her way back into peak form, and both players have the kind of serve-plus-forehand game that can turn a final into a lightning-fast shootout. Perfect listening if you care about the US Open, love matchup-driven tennis talk, or want the clearest read on who is most likely to leave New York with a title.