Karolína Muchová advanced to the second round of the US Open at Flushing Meadows in New York City, defeating Austria’s Sinja Kraus in straight sets under an hour on Monday, Sept. 1, 2026.
A Rapid Victory on the Grandstand Court
The match concluded with a decisive scoreline as Muchová dismissed the 90th-ranked Kraus without dropping a set. After holding a 4-2 lead in the opening set, Muchová surrendered very few games, leaving the Austrian qualifier visibly frustrated and frequently gesturing toward her player box.
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Muchová reflected on the quick match during her on-court post-match interview, noting her affinity for the venue. “I’m happy with how I handled it. Just like last year, I started with a match here on the Grandstand. I have great memories of this court. Thank you all for taking the time to come at 11 in the morning,” she told the half-full grandstands.
Addressing Health Concerns and Recent Milestones
Just one week after reaching the Wimbledon final, she announced she had undergone a minor medical procedure that required a temporary break from competition. She skipped all standard warm-up tournaments, using only a mixed doubles appearance at Flushing Meadows as her competitive tune-up.
Muchová captured the US Open mixed doubles title prior to the start of the singles main draw. “It was a bit strange to become a Grand Slam champion even before the Grandslam started, but it was nice. We enjoyed it,” she said with a smile. The doubles triumph coincided with her 30th birthday, prompting a week-long celebration abroad with friends before shifting focus to her singles campaign.
Fans and media have monitored her physical condition closely since her return, particularly after online video footage surfaced from a practice session with world No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka showing Muchová receiving specialized treatment and stretching on her wrists—an area that has troubled her in past seasons.
Next Opponent Awaits in Round Two
With her opening-round hurdle cleared efficiently, Muchová turns her attention to the next stage of the tournament. She is scheduled to face British player Katie Boulter in the second round of the US Open.
Worth a look
