Top 5 Photos 8/31: Zverev celebrates win with brother

What would typically be the final major of the year is only the second Grand Slam to take place in 2020. COVID-19 halted the tours for six months, but the top players are back swinging in New York. The same title is up for grabs but the conditions are very unfamiliar.

These are the Top 5 photos from opening day at the Billie Jean King USTA National Tennis Center.

1

Alexander Zverev

Zverev kept his perfect record against Kevin Anderson alive by overcoming a shaky opening performance. The world No. 5 seed posted a 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-3, 7-5 score to advance to the second round. Before exiting Arthur Ashe stadium, the German celebrated with his brother Mischa via the court-side zoom.

2

US Open Grounds

It's undoubtedly an eerie sight in Flushing Meadows with no fans walking the grounds and concession stands closed. The US Open's staple Honey Deuce cocktail won't be served to thousands of thirsty patrons, but it's refreshing to see the world's top names hitting aces in New York.

3

Denis Shapovalov

"Playing without the fans is definitely interesting. I have to find ways to get myself pumped up," Shapovalov said in his off-court interview.

American Sebastian Korda tested the Canadian until the very end. With 13 aces and 35 winners, Shapovalov posted a 6-4, 4-6, 6-3, 6-2 win to move into the second round.

4

Angelique Kerber

The former US Open champion managed to pull out a 6-4, 6-4, victory against Ajla Tomljanovic. The world No. 23 will next face Anna-Lena Friedsam, who she has defeated in both of their previous meetings.

5

Coco Gauff

Despite saving a few match points, the 16-year-old would fall short in her New York opener against Anastasija Sevastova. Very little separated the two, but the Latvian's experience shined through as she squeezed out a 3-6, 7-5, 4-6 win.