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Next-Gen stars dominate US Open – ready for Australia

The US Open has provided the perfect platform for the next generation of tennis superstars to rise.

For years, tennis fans have been wondering who will finally take the mantle from the likes of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. The time has arrived for the next generation of tennis stars after a weekend of gripping Grand Slam finals.

On the women’s side of the draw, it was Naomi Osaka claiming her third major in as many years.

Osaka is now a two-time US Open Champion, clearly favouring the hardcourt after also claiming the Australian Open in 2019.

The 22-year-old will now surely head into the Australian Open as number 1 Ash Barty’s biggest roadblock.

Of course, we can never discount the invincible Serena Williams, but after failing to win a Singles major since 2017, has the tide officially turned? With Osaka (22 years), Sofia Kenin (21 years) and Bianca Andreescu (20 years) winning the last three majors, plus Barty (24 years) holding the number 1 crown, does this signify a changing of the guard to a new generation of stars?

On the men’s side, the rankings are still dominated by Djokovic, Nadal and Federer. But is it time for the next-gen to start seriously challenging?

Dominic Thiem has finally claimed his maiden Championship, while 23-year-old Alex Zverev absolutely pushed him to the limit. The absence of Nadal and Federer from the tournament has provided a platform for these stars to step up and showcase their abundant talent.

Semi-finalist Daniil Medvedev is also only 24 and already has a coveted top 5 ranking, assuring he is just as big a threat to the mantle as Thiem and Zverev.

Djokovic will undoubtedly head into the Australian Open as overwhelming favourite, but you would have to think Thiem, Medvedev and Zverev would certainly be fancying their chances.

Of course, we can’t forget Australia’s newest hero, Nick Kyrgios, with the divisive figure well and truly bringing Aussies back into his corner as we head into his home tournament. Just how long will we need to wait until the talented star claims his own maiden major?

One thing is for sure, the 2021 Australian Open will be one of the most anticipated events on the sporting calendar. Keep up to date on all the latest news at Ticketmaster Discover.