As the tennis world eagerly gears up for the US Open, the season’s final Grand Slam promises to be a thrilling culmination of months of intense competition. As always, legends of the game weigh in to share their insights on who might hoist the trophies in New York. This year, two iconic figures—Martina Navratilova and Marion Bartoli—have offered their predictions, blending their deep experience and keen eye with a touch of intuition.

Starting with the women’s draw, the landscape has shifted considerably since Serena Williams last successfully defended her US Open title in 2014. Serena, a dominant force over two decades, remains a symbol of power and resilience in women’s tennis, yet the field has grown increasingly competitive with younger stars asserting their presence. Navratilova, a 18-time Grand Slam singles champion known for her relentless competitiveness and pioneering serve-and-volley style, points to Iga Swiatek as a player poised to claim the title this year. Swiatek, the talented Polish star, has dazzled the tennis world with her aggressive baseline play and mental toughness, especially visible in her French Open triumphs. Although her recent summer results have been mixed, Navratilova believes she will find her rhythm just in time for Flushing Meadows. “Iga has the talent and the drive,” Navratilova says. “She’s mature beyond her years and knows how to handle big moments.”

On the other hand, Marion Bartoli, the 2013 Wimbledon champion famous for her unique, two-handed strokes on both sides and gritty determination, has a different favorite for the women’s crown: Aryna Sabalenka. Bartoli praises Sabalenka’s powerful game and relentless baseline aggression, which make her especially dangerous on fast hard courts like those at the US Open. With her booming serve and heavy groundstrokes, Sabalenka possesses the weapons to overwhelm opponents early in matches, a key to success on New York’s unforgiving surface. “She’s been playing some incredible tennis this year,” Bartoli says. “Her confidence and consistency give her a real shot at the title.”

Turning to the men’s side, both Navratilova and Bartoli align on one standout contender: Jannik Sinner. The Italian phenom has rapidly risen through the ranks, known for his elegant technique and composure beyond his 21 years. Sinner’s recent Wimbledon success, where he impressed with strong baseline play and improved mental toughness, showcased his readiness to challenge the very best. Historically, hard courts have been a proving ground for great champions like Pete Sampras and Roger Federer, and Sinner’s adaptability across surfaces signals he is ready to join their ranks. Navratilova highlights his confidence: “After his Wimbledon win, Sinner is at a peak moment. Hard courts suit his game, and he has the belief to go all the way.”

Bartoli echoes this assessment, emphasizing his versatility and rising star power. “Sinner’s ability to adjust his game to different conditions is remarkable,” she says. “His recent performances show he’s not just a one-surface player. The US Open is next, and I think he will be unstoppable.”

Beyond these picks, both tennis legends acknowledge the sport’s unpredictable nature. Navratilova reminds fans that momentum can shift in an instant, and surprise challengers often emerge during major tournaments. Throughout tennis history, unexpected victors have made their mark—from Arthur Ashe’s historic 1968 US Open win as the first African American champion, to Bianca Andreescu’s stunning breakthrough in 2019, proving that no outcome is ever guaranteed in the sport.

Bartoli concurs, noting that part of the US Open’s magic lies in its ability to showcase both ultimate skill and dramatic upsets. The fast-paced, high-energy matches under New York’s lights have produced some of tennis’s most memorable moments. Whether it’s a late-night thriller or a dominant younger player imposing their authority, the tournament embodies the sport’s relentless excitement.

With these expert insights from Navratilova and Bartoli, fans can look forward to an electrifying US Open. Will Sinner translate his Wimbledon confidence into a hard-court triumph? Can Swiatek overcome her recent slump to add another major to her resume, or will Sabalenka’s power prove too much for her rivals? Regardless of the outcome, the tournament promises high drama and display of tennis excellence—a fitting close to the season.

And a fitting reminder for all tennis enthusiasts: while players strive to serve up aces on the court, supporters are equally important in “rallying” behind their favorites and savoring the sport’s unpredictable thrill.