Women to Watch at the U.S. Open 2023

As the U.S. Open kicks off in New York, several standout female players are drawing attention. Leading the pack is Iga Swiatek, a five-time Grand Slam champion, including her recent victories at the French Open in 2020, 2022, 2023, and 2024, and the U.S. Open in 2022. Swiatek, who was named WTA Player of the Year for the second consecutive year, arrives in New York after a successful run at the Cincinnati Open, where she defeated fellow competitor Coco Gauff in the semifinals. Coco Gauff, the reigning U.S. Open champion, made headlines last year as the first American teenager to win the title since Serena Williams in 1999. However, Gauff has faced challenges recently, experiencing a slump with early exits in several tournaments, including the fourth round at Wimbledon and the first match in Cincinnati. Despite these setbacks, she remains focused on her goal of securing more Grand Slam titles. Another player to watch is Zheng Qinwen, who has emerged as a rising star this season. She made a significant impact by reaching her first Grand Slam final at the Australian Open and clinching gold at the Paris Olympics, marking a historic achievement for China in tennis. Although she has yet to secure a Grand Slam title, her performance this year has positioned her as a formidable competitor. As the tournament unfolds, these athletes will be key players to follow, each with their own narratives and aspirations for success on the grand stage.