Top trio ready to face rising talent at Flushing Meadows

>>NEW YORK: A clash of generations and styles will be on display when the US Open kicks off today, with past and present champions Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek and Coco Gauff leading the field in a wide open women's draw.

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The established order of world tennis will be eager to pull rank when they collide with a host of emerging talent at Flushing Meadows, where no woman has claimed back-to-back titles since Serena Williams lifted the trophy for a sixth time in 2014.

With rising stars such as Victoria Mboko and Mirra Andreeva crashing the party, and seasoned contenders fine-tuning their tactics, fans will be in for a rollercoaster ride in New York.

Defending champion Sabalenka has triumphed in Brisbane, Miami and Madrid this season but frustratingly has failed to add to her Grand Slam haul, losing to Madison Keys in the Australian Open final and to Gauff in the Roland Garros showpiece.

"She's gotten to the end of these big tournaments, but the nerves have got in the way," ESPN commentator Mary Joe Fernandez said during a conference call.

"We'll see if mentally she puts it together. If she plays well, obviously look out."