Aleksander Kovacevic enters the U.S. Open ranked 89th in the world in men’s singles following a recent victory over former World No. 3 Stefanos Tsitsipas at a tournament in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, according to tournament reporting and player interviews at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center.
Upper West Side Roots and Global Momentum
Kovacevic grew up on West 97th Street and attended P.S. 9, MS54, and Beacon High School, according to West Side Rag archives. His local ties extend to competitive history at Flushing Meadows, including a run to the semifinals of the U.S. Open mixed doubles competition in 2024. Beyond New York, his recent global circuit results include advancing to the doubles semifinals at Wimbledon earlier this summer.
Tactical Evolution Noted by Top Rivals
Following their hard-court match in North Carolina, Tsitsipas told the West Side Rag that Kovacevic has noticeably improved his serve.
“I don’t remember him serving that well, and that was something that was surprising to see — the level of improvement from the previous match that I played against him,” Tsitsipas said on Saturday at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center, comparing the meeting to their 2024 match in Los Cabos, Mexico. Tsitsipas also described Kovacevic as much more aggressive and daring in his shot selection.
First-Round Matchup at the 2026 U.S. Open
The unseeded Kovacevic begins his 2026 U.S. Open singles campaign on Monday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m. on Court 11 against the No. 22 seed, Valentin Vacherot of Monaco. Vacherot enters the match following a hard-court rough patch that included recent losses to No. 70 Daniel Vallejo of Paraguay and American Emilio Nava, who was ranked No. 111 at the time of their meeting.
Court 11 provides an intimate venue with bleacher-style seating positioned feet from the court, where Kovacevic typically draws a vocal local following. Grounds pass holders and stadium ticket holders can access the venue for Monday’s match.
Did You Know?
Kovacevic grew up on West 97th Street and attended P.S. 9, MS54, and Beacon High School.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Aleksander Kovacevic play his first-round match at the 2026 U.S. Open?
He plays on Monday, Aug. 31, at 11 a.m. on Court 11.
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Who is Kovacevic playing in the opening round?
He faces the No. 22 seed, Valentin Vacherot of Monaco.
Where can spectators watch the match in person?
The match takes place on Court 11 at the USTA Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, accessible with any valid grounds pass or stadium ticket.
How can viewers watch the U.S. Open on television or streaming?
Every match of the tournament is broadcast live on ESPN.
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