Following just a few small upsets (Medvedev mainly…) on the first day at the Flushing Meadows, let’s have a look at some good matchups for the day no 2 of the 2025 US Open.
Carlos Alcaraz vs Reilly Opelka
Carlos Alcaraz comes into New York as the world No. 2 and 2022 US Open champion, with an impressive 2025 record of 54-6 and six titles already under his belt. He recently added another Masters 1000 in Cincinnati, although it’s worth pointing out that a couple of his wins there came via opponents retiring or not being at full strength. In any case, Alcaraz is levels above most players on tour and usually finds a way to raise his game on the big stage.
Reilly Opelka is back in the mix after struggling with injuries in recent seasons. The 6’11’’ American has put together a 23-17 record this year and climbed back into the top 100. As always, his serve is the big equalizer – when it’s landing, he’s dangerous against anyone. But playing Alcaraz in a night session could take a little sting off his delivery, and over the course of five sets, the Spaniard’s all-around game should prevail. We can see Opelka getting a set though as Alcaraz is usually not his absolute best in the first few rounds of tournaments.
Prediction: Alcaraz in 4 sets.
Botic van de Zandschulp vs Holger Rune
This could be a sneaky fun one. Holger Rune, still only 22, has had a rollercoaster 2025 season. He’s been searching for consistency, but when he’s on, his aggressive game can trouble anyone.
Botic van de Zandschulp, meanwhile, is the kind of opponent that Rune doesn’t always enjoy facing. He’s solid, unpredictable in a good way, and can redirect pace effectively. His record this year hasn’t been sparkling, but he’s dangerous on hard courts when healthy. The question is whether he can sustain his level over a long best-of-five against a player with Rune’s shot-making ability.
Rune remain the favorite here but Botic has the tools to make this complicated if Rune’s level dips. Still, if the Dane keeps his head and stays aggressive, he should squeeze through.
Prediction: Rune in 5 sets.
Jaume Munar vs Jaime Faria
This is a battle of grinders, but with different levels of experience. Jaume Munar sits at No. 44 in the world, with a balanced 21-20 record in 2025. He’s built his career around a reliable baseline game, patience and the ability to turn matches into physical, mental battles.
Across the net, Jaime Faria is enjoying a breakthrough season, reaching a career-high of No. 87 and with a 20-18 record. This will be his first appearance in a US Open main draw, so nerves could play a part. He’s had some encouraging results on hard courts, but Munar’s defensive chops and know-how in this type of match give him the edge.
Prediction: Munar in 4 sets.
