US Open 2026: Dart's Grand Slam drought ends as Djokovic shocks with early exit
Dart ends major drought as Djokovic's US Open ends in upset withdrawal
British tennis enjoyed a significant breakthrough on day one of the US Open, with Dart finally breaking through for a Grand Slam victory after nearly two years away from major wins. The British player's success came amid shock news from the men's draw, where Djokovic's participation ended unexpectedly as illness and injury forced the world's elite player to withdraw from the tournament entirely, casting fresh doubt over his future on the professional circuit.
Alcaraz and Sabalenka make winning starts despite contrasting circumstances
Meanwhile, defending champion Alcaraz returned to action in New York following injury layoff, securing a positive opening match result. Sabalenka similarly impressed as she continued her recent form resurgence and launched her bid for an unprecedented three consecutive US Open titles with a commanding performance on court.
Veteran Venus bids farewell; Wawrinka's era ends
In other notable developments, Venus Williams made her latest-ever start at the tournament at age 46 before falling to defeat. Swiss stalwart Wawrinka's final appearance at the US Open also ended in loss against Berrettini, marking the conclusion of another storied career chapter at Flushing Meadows.
Today's tennis headlines
- Dart ends 19-month wait for Grand Slam win in NY — espn.com
- Djokovic, ill and hurting, out of US Open in shocker — espn.com
- Venus, 46, loses after latest-ever start at US Open — espn.com
- Healthy again, Alcaraz returns with US Open win — espn.com
- Sabalenka rolls at US Open after uneven stretch — espn.com
- Wawrinka falls to Berrettini in final US Open match — espn.com
- Tsitsipas says Kyrgios' cocaine ban was 'expected' — espn.com
- 🎾 US Open: Where to watch, schedule, more — espn.com
- Australian tennis battlers savour ‘crazy’ pay days at US Open — theguardian.com
- A loss that feels different - Djokovic's future more uncertain than ever — feeds.bbci.co.uk
- Sabalenka blocks out noise to start US Open 'three-peat' bid with victory — feeds.bbci.co.uk
- GB's Fearnley and Dart complete superb comeback wins — feeds.bbci.co.uk