When looking back at the 2025 US Open, the obvious choices for “player of the tournament” might seem clear. Aryna Sabalenka, the champion, naturally stands out. Amanda Anisimova produced a memorable run, while Jessica Pegula pushed Sabalenka harder than anyone else. Marketa Vondrousova also deserves mention for halting the charge of an in-form Elena Rybakina, and of course, the return of Naomi Osaka brought star power and intrigue.
Yet as an independent outlet, free from the narratives of the bigger media voices, we chose a different perspective.
Why Spain’s Cristina Bucsa Stood Out in New York
At a tournament dominated by big names and title favorites, Cristina Bucsa’s story unfolded quietly, almost under the radar. Arriving in New York ranked outside the top 90, she was not expected to make headlines. Yet with resilience, smart shot selection, and fearless play, Bucsa carved out her best-ever Grand Slam performance, reaching the Round of 16 in singles.
Her success wasn’t limited to one discipline: in doubles, alongside Nicole Melichar-Martínez, she advanced to the third round, beating seasoned opposition before falling to the eventual champions. Together, these achievements made Bucsa one of the true breakout figures of the 2025 US Open, her run gaining momentum as fans and media gradually realized the scope of her accomplishment.
Singles Journey – First Grand Slam Round of 16
- Round 1 – vs. Claire Liu: Bucsa began confidently, winning 6–2, 6–1 in 1h22, controlling rallies with ease.
- Round 2 – vs. Alexandra Eala: She handled the young Filipina 6–4, 6–3, again in 1h22, showcasing consistency under pressure.
- Round 3 – vs. Elise Mertens [19]: Her biggest win came here, overturning a one-set deficit to defeat the Belgian seed 3–6, 7–5, 6–3 in a 2h41 thriller.
- Round 4 – vs. Aryna Sabalenka [1]: Facing the World No. 1 and defending champion, Bucsa bowed out 6–1, 6–4 in 1h13, but left a strong impression on Armstrong Stadium.
Doubles Success with Melichar-Martinez
- Round 1 – vs. Hsieh/Krueger: Bucsa and her partner survived a tense battle against one of Taiwan’s best, 3–6, 7–5, [10–4], in 2h18.
- Round 2 – vs. Linette/Shibahara: Another comeback win followed, 5–7, 6–2, [10–6], lasting 2h38.
- Round 3 – vs. Dabrowski/Routliffe [3]: Their run ended 6–4, 6–2 in 1h21, against the No. 3 seeds who went on to lift the trophy.
Why This US Open Defines Bucsa
- First-ever singles Round of 16 at a Slam.
- Doubles third round, eliminating seasoned teams.
- Wins marked by comebacks, proving her resilience.
- Recognition among Spanish tennis history, joining Sánchez Vicario, Martínez, and Muguruza as women to go deep in New York.
Cristina Bucsa may not have started the fortnight as a headline act, never saw Arthur Ashe Stadium from the inside but by the end of it, she left New York as one of the standout competitors of the 2025 US Open, earning $437,500 in prize money. Doing so, she virtually doubled her career money in 1 week.