Patrick McEnroe shared early predictions for the approaching 2026 US Open tournament. He highlighted Ben Shelton as a contender. He thinks Shelton will stop a 23-year U.S. men's Grand Slam drought at the US Open. McEnroe discussed Carlos Alcaraz in addition. He noted the star athlete holds a strong chance at the 2026 competition.
These predictions for Shelton and Alcaraz demonstrate the opportunity to break the drought in American tennis. Outlets including Tennis World USA and SSBCrack reported on McEnroe's statements regarding the competitors and the action.