The ATP Tour has just received a much-needed double boost as the US Open entry list is announced

And in a much-needed boost for the men’s US Open draw, defending champion Carlos Alcaraz is also included despite his injury absence.

Who is your pick to win the US Open men’s singles title?

ATP Tour double boost with Carlos Alcaraz and Holger Rune in US Open entry list

After winning the 2026 Australian Open, Alcaraz missed Wimbledon and the French Open because of a wrist injury.

But he is currently working his way back to fitness, and has been included in the entry list for the US Open, which is a very welcome sight.

When fit, he has constantly played out a thrilling battle with Sinner, while his impressive shotmaking and charismatic attitude also go a long way.

Unfortunately that has all been absent in recent times because of his injury, with Alcaraz last playing at the Barcelona Open in April.

READ MORE: Five dark horses to win the 2026 US Open as the entry lists are announced

And while Holger Rune hasn’t managed to hit the heights of his fellow 23-year-old, the Dane’s name in the US Open entry list is also fantastic news.

Rune last played in Stockholm in October 2025, having been ruled out of action since then with an Achilles injury.

A former world number four, he picked up a famous win over Alcaraz to claim his most recent ATP title at the 2025 Barcelona Open.

Whether or not he, and indeed Alcaraz, actually make it back in time for the Grand Slam remains to be seen, but the early signs are certainly positive.

Will the US Open crown a home champion?

The potential return of Alcaraz is a huge boost for the ATP Tour, but many of his rivals won’t exactly have that same perspective.

Despite his lengthy layoff, the Spaniard could indeed return with a bang and enjoy a lengthy stay in New York, possibly even successfully defending his title.

That would represent yet another men’s Grand Slam champion from outside of the United States, with Andy Roddick remarkably standing as the last such winner with his 2003 US Open win.

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Their WTA counterparts have endured no such struggle, with American duo Madison Keys and Coco Gauff claiming Grand Slam titles last year.

And there’s certainly a great chance of further success at this year’s US Open after the entry list was confirmed.

With 28, comprising 14 women and 14 men, the United States leads all nations for players earning direct entry into the main draw.