US Open Men’s Preview: Look Out for the Dark Horse By Kristen Tracy

Written by: Staff on 25th August 2013

US Open Men's Preview: Look Out for the Dark Horse By Kristen Tracy

epa03792147 Switzerland's Roger Federer serves the ball during the round of sixteen match against the Czech Republic's Hajek during the 2013 International German Open at Am Rothenbaum inâ Hamburg,â Germany, 18â July 2013. EPA/AXEL HEIMKEN |

The U.S. Open is the biggest event of the year for tennis players and fans alike. Maybe it’s the tournament’s history of epic night matches, or the guaranteed famous faces that act as spectators. Maybe it’s even the fact that it’s the last major of the year – meaning we have to wait 6 whole months until the next one. For me, it’s New York. There’s a feeling the city exudes – one unexplainable to anyone except those who have had the pleasure of experiencing it firsthand. It’s quite possibly one of my favorites places on Earth; and the fact that it plays host to one of the biggest tennis tournaments in the world only adds to it’s appeal.

This year’s Open promises to be an interesting one. With Roger Federer seeded 7th (his lowest ranking in years), the second week becomes less and less predictable. And while the man from Switzerland isn’t the overwhelming favorite to win he’s still in the running. Also in the running? Two dark horse contenders that could make deep runs in the next two weeks – guys that may not necessarily have a shot at winning, but that the big guns should be wary of.

John Isner

It’s no secret that the current state of American tennis isn’t thriving. Andy Roddick’s gone and the search to find his predecessor as the country’s leader hasn’t been an easy one. While many have shown great potential, only a few have proven they have what it takes to be on top. Isner is one of these guys. His biggest flaw is the inconsistency in his game. A year and a half ago, he was making his first appearance in the top 10. But several injuries later and 2013 hasn’t been all that kind to the 6-foot-10 American. He seems to have redeemed his misfortune by coming in 2nd for this year’s Emirates Airlines U.S. Open Series.

Isner’s time to win a major is still a ways off, but that doesn’t mean that he isn’t a dangerous opponent. Rafael Nadal said a week ago when playing Isner in the Cinncinati Master’s final that he never likes playing John because of the weapons he possesses. Weapons yes, but Isner is still lacking a complete game – one that will make him an even bigger threat than he already is. That doesn’t mean though that he’s not going to be an obstacle during these two weeks though.

Tommy Haas

Who would have thought that Haas would be in the best shape of his life, playing the best he’s ever played, at 35 years old? Not many, that’s for sure. But in 2013 he has risen to number 13 in the world – and this year’s no. 12 seed in New York. He finds himself in the same quarter of the draw as world no. 1 Novak Djokovic, so his chance of going super deep into the draw is unlikely, But his improved game has shown he’s not done yet and his persistence is something to be admired. Even more admirable though, is his heart. And as we’ve seen many times in the game of tennis, heart can get you a long way.

It’s clear after looking at the draw that the bottom half is the heaviest. Whoever makes it to the final from that half is going to have a tough road ahead of them. And I’m predicting that for the first time in many grand slam finals, we won’t see an appearance from Novak Djokovic. His world no. 1 ranking is in danger and as hard as he’ll try, look for Rafael Nadal to finally regain his spot atop the world of tennis. It’ll be the Spaniard facing off against defending champion Andy Murray. The winner between those two is still a little close to call. The favor will all depend on how each player looks in their opening rounds. Regardless though, we’re in for a wild next two weeks.

So hang on tennis fans. New York is calling. And she never disappoints in the area of entertainment.

Topics: John Isner, Roger Federer, Sports, Tennis, Tennis News, Tommy Haas, US Open