Kostyuk advances to US Open second round

Marta Kostyuk, the 11th seed, cruised past Australian qualifier Storm Hunter 6-4 6-1 to reach the US Open second round, continuing strong Grand Slam form after semi-final runs at the French Open and Wimbledon. She seized a 4-1 lead in the first set, closing it out after Hunter double-faulted on set point, and then dominated the second set with early breaks. Kostyuk did not face a single break point in the match, underscoring her consistency on the day. The Ukrainian said she stays grounded, enjoying her tennis, and acknowledged the challenge of facing a qualifier in the opener. She will next compete against the winner of the Sloane Stephens vs Clara Tauson matchup in New York. The result reinforces Kostyuk’s status as a genuine title contender at Flushing Meadows this year.