In a world of AI, deep fakes, misinformation and disinformation, here comes the 2024 U.S. Open, with truth in advertising. We have plenty of U.S.—the tournament is not only based in America, but this year features a welter of homegrown players still in contention. As we write this, the lot includes, defending champion Coco Gauff, hot pick Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, Taylor Fritz and unsung Brandon Nakashima.
And, heaven knows, the tournament is open. Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz—winners of eight of the last nine majors—didn’t survive Week 1. No men’s champion has defended his title since 2008 (Roger Federer) and it won’t be the case this year. And the women’s draw remains swollen with possibility.