Alex de Minaur, Australia’s world No. 8, is brimming with confidence for the 2025 US Open, starting August 24, despite a daunting draw that pits him against compatriot Chris O’Connell in the first round and potentially top seeds like Alexander Zverev and Jannik Sinner later. After an injury-ravaged 2024, De Minaur’s strong 2025 season, including a Washington title and Cincinnati quarterfinal, has him “raring to go” for Flushing Meadows, where he aims to leverage his top-eight seeding and improved fitness.
De Minaur’s Optimism and Preparation
De Minaur expressed excitement about his improved preparation compared to last year’s hip injury-plagued US Open, stating, “I’m in a much better spot physically and mentally. I’m ready to take on anyone.” His 2025 highlights include an Australian Open quarterfinal, Rotterdam final, and a career-high ranking of No. 6 in July. After a surprising Cincinnati loss to Reilly Opelka, he’s focused on his speed and counterpunching, which suit the fast hard courts of New York. De Minaur’s 24 hard-court wins this season, second only to Carlos Alcaraz, bolster his confidence.
The Tricky Draw
De Minaur faces O’Connell, ranked No. 79, in the opener, a matchup he dislikes due to their friendship but one he’s favored to win, having beaten O’Connell previously. Potential second-round opponent Hugo Gaston (2-0 head-to-head) and third-round foe Stefanos Tsitsipas (11-1 against De Minaur) pose early threats. A fourth-round clash with Karen Khachanov, followed by a quarterfinal against No. 3 Zverev, who leads their head-to-head 8-2, looms large. A semifinal against defending champion Sinner, who defeated De Minaur in straight sets at the 2025 Australian Open, would be a monumental challenge. Despite this, De Minaur remains unfazed, saying, “If I’m facing Jannik or Carlos, I’m in a good spot.”
Broader Context and Outlook
De Minaur’s resilience mirrors that of peers like Coco Gauff, navigating coaching changes, or Luke Littler, handling darts scrutiny. His ability to keep balls low and exploit Zverev’s forehand weaknesses on hard courts gives him a slight edge in a potential five-set quarterfinal. Fans on X are optimistic, with one post stating, “Demon’s speed will carry him deep at US Open!” (@AussieTennisFan, August 23, 2025). With a favorable early draw and newfound physical strength, De Minaur’s aggressive mindset and home-nation support could propel him past his 2024 quarterfinal run, challenging the dominance of Sinner and Alcaraz.
