Women’s title up for grabs

Her list includes all-time great Serena Williams and the big-hitting teenager Bianca Andreescu. Evert said the depth of the women’s game should be celebrated as there is no dominant force now. While the men’s side looks to be a three-horse race between Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, the women’s tournament is a relative toss-up.

“There are probably eight to 10 women who could win (the title), which is something we’ve said the past two years,” Evert told reporters. “Women’s tennis is not dominated by anybody. The story is the depth of the game and you have to admire and celebrate it.” When pressed, Evert picked Serena as the favourite. The six-time US Open champion reached the Wimbledon final in July but her hard court season has been limited to one just tournament.

At the Rogers Cup in Toronto, she was forced to retire from the final against Andreescu with back spasms. Evert said the New York crowd could give the American the boost she needs as she tries to avenge her defeat by Japan’s Naomi Osaka in the final at Flushing Meadows last year.