With three reigning champions technically competing in this year US Open men’s draw, there are plenty of big names to follow.
From Rafael Nadal to Daniil Medvedev to Dominic Thiem, there are a host of storylines to follow.
Let’s dive into a couple of the fan-favorite matches on Monday and see where the betting value lies.
Note: Match times are subject to change. Read here for tips on viewing US Open matches.
Pablo Carreno Busta (-430) vs. Dominic Thiem (+350)
3 p.m. ET
Thiem picked up his first hard court win in 18 months last week and showed fans glimpses of his Grand Slam winning form.
For a man that is impossible to root against, it has been wonderful to see him back on court and producing some promising tennis. However, it is sad to say he is simply not near the level he once was.
Thiem's consistency is lacking, and he is misfiring on shots that were once automatic for the Austrian. This is expected given his long hiatus from the tour and his recent return to hard courts, but it's unlikely to see drastic changes in just a week'stime.
His fighting spirit is never in question, but it will take more than mentality to make an impact against this year's Montreal Champion.
Pablo Carreno Busta looked to be in scary form in Montreal. Dropping just a single set en route to his maiden Masters 1000 title, the Spaniard was virtually unbeatable on the baseline.
Despite an early loss to Kecmanovic the following week in Cincinnati, this match can be discounted as he was clearly feeling the effects from his triumphs the week prior.
Carreno Busta is as fundamental as it gets in terms of strokes. With remarkable consistency on his forehand and backhand, it is hard to find a weak point in his rally ability
He will be sure to ask every question of Thiem’s current form. Although this match may be fantastic in terms of Thiem finding his rhythm throughout his return to 2020 form, he will struggle to make an impact on Carreno Busta's game.
As Thiem’s consistency is lacking and Carreno Busta’s is as strong as ever, I expect the unforced error count to climb on Thiem throughout the match.
Additionally, the Spaniard should inflict pressure on Thiem’s service games far too often for him to handle. Trust the relentless baseliner to send the 2020 US Open champion packing in brisk fashion.
Pick: Carreno Busta -5.5 Games (-138 via FanDuel)
Nick Kyrgios (-720) vs. Thanasi Kokkinakis (+500)
9 p.m. ET
Quite possibly the highlight match of round one, Nick Kyrgios vs. Thanasi Kokkinakis is set to be the last men’s match to take the court on Monday and they will do so in Arthur Ashe Stadium.
This doubles duo and longtime pair of friends haven't faced each other on the singles court since 2014.
Kyrgios has battled a career with periods where he did not care about tennis and faced various off-court issues, but he looks healthy and focused this year. Most importantly for his game, he looks happy.
Kokkinakis' career has been plagued with injuries, but he is looking healthy and fit in 2022.
He began his year with a title in Adelaide and he has picked up some nice results throughout the year.
These two players love to entertain the crowd. From blasting winners to tweeners to amazing celebrations, all viewers are in for a treat.
As two friends take the court, there will most definitely be plenty of smiles, great sportsmanship and quality tennis.
Kyrgios and Kokkinakis possess massive serves and forehands. Holding serve is of ease to them and I expect that to remain the case. It's hard to foresee consistent breaks or either player pulling away.
I believe this match will not only go beyond three sets but will contain a tiebreak or two, thus making the over the value play of this match.
Pick: Over 36.5 Games (-125 via FanDuel)
