Image Source: The New York Times
DraftKings odds were not included in the source material, but the 2026 U.S. Open draw has already created several major betting storylines. The tournament begins Sunday in New York, with defending champions Carlos Alcaraz and Aryna Sabalenka facing challenging paths as they attempt to repeat last year’s success.
The draw has produced a mix of returning stars, injury concerns and dangerous early-round matchups. For bettors, the most important factors may not be the opening prices alone. Fitness, recent form and the strength of each player’s section could quickly influence the market once official numbers are available.
DraftKings Odds Watch: Alcaraz Faces a Dangerous Return
Alcaraz will open against Roman Safiullin in what could be one of the most revealing matches of the first round. The 2025 champion is returning to Grand Slam competition after four months away and is still managing questions surrounding his right wrist.
Safiullin presents an especially difficult test because of his aggressive style. The 29-year-old Russian owns a powerful serve, attacks early in rallies and has experience competing on major courts. He also defeated Andrey Rublev and João Fonseca at his most recent Grand Slam appearance before pushing Novak Djokovic.
That combination makes the matchup important for anyone tracking DraftKings odds once they are released. Alcaraz may be the clear favorite on reputation, but Safiullin’s ability to play at a rapid pace could make the match closer than expected. A slow start or wrist discomfort could create live-betting opportunities, while a dominant performance would quickly strengthen Alcaraz’s championship profile.
If Alcaraz advances, Tommy Paul and Ben Shelton could emerge as potential threats in his section. Djokovic is also positioned in the same half of the men’s draw, creating the possibility of a high-profile meeting later in the tournament.
Explosive Women’s Draw Creates Major Betting Questions
The women’s tournament appears even more open. Sabalenka enters as the top seed and defending champion, but her recent results have raised questions. She has reached only one semifinal in her past seven tournaments, a stretch that has placed additional pressure on her New York campaign.
Sabalenka’s draw may look manageable at first, yet potential opponents such as Barbora Krejčíková, Maja Chwalińska and Diana Shnaider could test her in very different ways. Krejčíková’s unusual angles and disruptive shot-making could frustrate Sabalenka, while Shnaider already owns a notable win after taking a 6-0 deciding set against her in Paris.
For anyone studying DraftKings odds, Sabalenka’s situation is a reminder that tournament prices can depend heavily on momentum. Her power makes her a favorite against nearly anyone, but a difficult draw and uncertain form could make her a less comfortable selection than her ranking suggests.
Rybakina’s Achilles Injury Could Reshape the Field
Elena Rybakina’s left Achilles is another critical factor. A healthy Rybakina could have a relatively smooth route into the second week, but her status has implications beyond her own title hopes. She is competing with Sabalenka, Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula for the world No. 1 ranking.
According to the analysis published by The Athletic, a semifinal run would give Rybakina control of the ranking race. If she withdraws or struggles physically, Iga Świątek could benefit significantly because the two players occupy the same quarter of the bracket.
Świątek is part of a crowded lower half that also includes Gauff, Mirra Andreeva, Amanda Anisimova and Naomi Osaka. That concentration of contenders could produce several high-value matchups before the semifinals and make outright predictions especially difficult.
Men’s Draw Has Star Power but Injury Concerns
The men’s bracket contains plenty of recognizable names, although injuries have dampened some of the excitement. World No. 1 Jannik Sinner is missing the tournament with a knee injury, while João Fonseca is out because of an abdominal issue.
Alexander Zverev leads the top section, with Felix Auger-Aliassime and Alex de Minaur also positioned among the leading contenders. The lower half features Djokovic, Ben Shelton, Daniil Medvedev, Frances Tiafoe and Alcaraz.
Several first-round matches stand out, including Stefanos Tsitsipas against Arthur Fils, Frances Tiafoe versus Martin Damm Jr., Matteo Berrettini against Stan Wawrinka and Mariano Navone against Djokovic. These contests could become early indicators of which players deserve attention when DraftKings odds enter the market.
What Bettors Should Watch Before the U.S. Open Begins
- Player fitness: Alcaraz’s wrist and Rybakina’s Achilles remain important variables.
- Recent form: Sabalenka’s results may affect expectations despite her top-seed status.
- Draw difficulty: Several women’s contenders are concentrated in the lower half.
- Live momentum: Aggressive players such as Safiullin can change a match quickly.
- Official pricing: No DraftKings odds were provided in the source material, so bettors should verify current lines before making decisions.
The 2026 U.S. Open is positioned as one of the most unpredictable majors in recent memory. Alcaraz is trying to prove he is ready after an extended absence, Sabalenka is searching for consistency and Rybakina’s health could alter the entire women’s bracket. Until official markets are posted, the draw itself offers the clearest preview of where the biggest opportunities and risks may emerge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Were DraftKings odds included in the source?
No. The source analyzed the U.S. Open draw and player storylines but did not provide specific DraftKings odds or betting lines.
Who does Carlos Alcaraz play in the first round?
Alcaraz is scheduled to face Roman Safiullin in the opening round of the 2026 U.S. Open.
Why is Alcaraz’s first-round match considered dangerous?
Alcaraz is returning after four months away and has dealt with a right wrist issue. Safiullin is an experienced, aggressive player with a powerful serve.
Which women’s players could challenge Aryna Sabalenka?
Barbora Krejčíková, Maja Chwalińska and Diana Shnaider are among the players identified as potential threats in Sabalenka’s section.
Why does Elena Rybakina’s injury matter to the draw?
Rybakina is competing for the world No. 1 ranking, and her possible absence would create additional opportunities for Iga Świątek and other contenders.
