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US Open Readies for Federer Return and Reshuffled Field

Opening Aug. 30, the US Open offers a record prize pool, consolidated broadcast deals, and a high-profile program of exhibitions.

Overview

  • The USTA published the full schedule for the tournament running from August 30 to September 13 and confirmed a record prize pool of about $108 million with singles winners set to receive $5.5 million each.
  • Broadcast rights in the referenced markets are consolidated behind pay platforms, with Sporteurope.tv carrying the live stream and Sky handling many matches on pay-TV, while free-to-air coverage is limited.
  • Roger Federer returned to Arthur Ashe/Center Court for a public training session and is scheduled for a showmatch and a legends doubles appearance as part of Hall of Fame week, and he said he will not resume the professional tour or accept a wildcard.
  • Jannik Sinner withdrew with a knee injury, moving Alexander Zverev to the No. 1 seed for the first time at a major, a change that commentators say raises expectations and pressure on Zverev ahead of the event.
  • The reworked mixed-doubles event returns as a short, star-driven lead-in that attracted fans last year but drew criticism from doubles specialists who say the format privileges spectacle over a full competitive draw, a debate that could shape player selection and fan experience this week.