U.S. Open 2026 Day 5 Highlights

Zheng Qinwen’s Emotional Victory

Zheng Qinwen displayed resilience on Day 5 of the U.S. Open, securing a 6-4, 2-6, 6-1 win over Yulia Putintseva. As a 2024 Olympic champion, Zheng’s journey has been marked by recovery from elbow surgery and a struggle to regain her form. Her celebration reflected sheer relief after battling illness and fatigue. She described her emotions upon winning, stating, “You know when you get sick, you are weak… I couldn’t control my emotions.”

Zheng emphasized rediscovering her competitive edge during the tournament, overcoming an absence of pressure that once challenged her focus. She is eager for the third-round clash with Madison Keys, as a match against a high-profile American assures her return to a prominent court.

Weather Impacts Players

The weather at the U.S. Open shifted dramatically from cool and wet to mid-80s and sunny, affecting players like Lorenzo Musetti and Félix Auger-Aliassime. Musetti, the Italian No. 13 seed, battled through dizzy spells and weakness, attributing his struggles to sudden temperature changes and inadequate warm-up facilities. He ultimately succumbed, 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-2.

Auger-Aliassime similarly experienced dizziness and was forced to concede to opponent Karen Khachanov — 6-7(5), 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.

Taylor Fritz’s Perfect Victory

Taylor Fritz showcased his adaptability on hard courts, dominating Mattia Bellucci 6-0, 6-1, 6-1 on Thursday in just 98 minutes. Fritz noted the court surface allowed for optimized returns and forehands. He advances to the third round against Francisco Cerúndolo. Fritz remarked on the advantages of his routine, whether he plays for 90 minutes or longer.

Contrasting Tour Dynamics

The women’s draw at the U.S. Open marks a historic moment, with all top 10 seeds reaching the third round. This feat, unseen since Wimbledon 2009, underscores the prominence of consistent contenders. Conversely, the men’s draw sees notable exits, creating opportunities for Alexander Zverev, the No. 1 seed. Despite tough matches, Zverev eyes a promising path following wins against Lorenzo Sonego and Quentin Halys.

Other Day 5 Results

• Alex Eala defeated Oleksandra Oliynykova, 6-1, 6-4.
• Flavio Cobolli overcame Tristan Schoolkate, 3-6, 6-3, 6-4, 7-5.
• Madison Keys battled back from 5-2 down, winning 5-7, 6-4, 7-6(10-5), defeating Anna Bondár.
• Learner Tien ended Gaël Monfils’ Grand Slam career — 6-3, 6-4, 6-3.

Upcoming Matches

The third round of the U.S. Open begins with Jessica Pegula facing Leylah Fernandez at 11:30 a.m. ET and Wu Yibing challenging Carlos Alcaraz. Daniil Medvedev and Arthur Rinderknech are set to clash in an eagerly anticipated stylistic contrast. Serena and Venus Williams return later, seeking another doubles victory.