The top half of the US Open 2025 women’s draw delivered drama, dominance, and plenty of excitement for the home crowd. Friday’s Round of 32 action saw several top seeds cruise through, while the American contingent celebrated strong wins from Jessica Pegula, Ann Li, and Taylor Townsend.
Pegula Shines Against Azarenka
Jessica Pegula produced a commanding performance to defeat former finalist Victoria Azarenka 6-1, 7-5. Pegula’s aggressive baseline game set the tone in the opener, and despite resistance from Azarenka in the second, the No. 5 seed held firm to close in straight sets. She remains the highest-ranked American still in the draw, and her consistency continues to make her a dark horse for the title.
Li Extends Dream Run
Ashlyn Li’s breakthrough tournament gathered more momentum with a 7-5, 6-3 victory over Australia’s Priscilla Hon. The American qualifier showed maturity beyond her years, striking cleanly from the baseline and keeping her composure in pressure moments. With her fearless style, Li has quickly become one of the feel-good stories of the US Open.
Townsend Powers Past Andreeva
Taylor Townsend added to the American celebrations by ousting rising star Mirra Andreeva 7-5, 6-2. Mixing her net-charging style with sharp groundstrokes, Townsend disrupted the teenager’s rhythm and thrilled the New York crowd. The veteran’s aggressive playbook proved too much, securing her a spot in the last 16.
Navarro Falls to Krejcikova
Not all results went the Americans’ way, as Emma Navarro bowed out in a tough three-set battle against Barbora Krejcikova, 6-4, 4-6, 4-6. Navarro started brightly, taking the opening set, but Krejcikova’s experience and variety turned the tide. With the loss, Navarro’s run dents her growing reputation as one of the most consistent U.S. players this season. She will also drop a significant number of points in the WTA rankings.
Sabalenka, Rybakina, and Vondrousova Cruise
The heavy hitters of the top half all advanced in style. Aryna Sabalenka overpowered Leylah Fernandez 6-3, 7-6(2), leaning on her booming serve and fearless ball-striking. Elena Rybakina dismantled Emma Raducanu 6-1, 6-2, looking sharp and composed throughout. Marketa Vondrousova edged a tight first set before cruising past Jasmine Paolini 7-6(4), 6-1 with her trademark variety.
Upset of the Day – Bucsa Stuns Mertens
Cristina Bucsa produced the day’s biggest upset, rallying past Elise Mertens 3-6, 7-5, 6-3. After dropping the opener, the Spaniard clawed her way back with steady baseline exchanges, sealing her place in the second week of a Slam for the first time.
Outlook for the Top Half
The Americans remain well-represented with Pegula, Li, and Townsend into the Round of 16, giving home fans plenty to cheer for. Pegula stands as the frontrunner among them, while Li and Townsend carry momentum as dangerous floaters. Meanwhile in the other section of the top half, Sabalenka, Rybakina, and Vondrousova continue to dominate, setting the stage for blockbuster clashes as the tournament intensifies.