The idea of Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz’s interesting relationship continuing in another Grand Slam final will be one of the primary themes when the US Open opens on Monday in New York.

Serbia’s Djokovic, 36, and Spain’s Alcaraz, 20, are at opposite ends of their careers, but they are the world’s two best men’s players.

Few are picking anyone other than Djokovic and Alcaraz to win the men’s singles in Flushing Meadows, where Djokovic is aiming for a record-tying 24th major singles victory and Alcaraz is defending his title from last year.

Iga Swiatek of Poland remains the woman to beat as she attempts to repeat her first-ever victory at the hard-court major.

The 22-year-old is ranked behind a slew of accomplished and in-form players, including Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka and home players Coco Gauff and Jessica Pegula.

From a British standpoint, Andy Murray is likely to be fit enough to compete, although Emma Raducanu will be absent as she continues her injury recovery.

As the year’s last Grand Slam tournament approaches, BBC Sport examines the big talking themes in New York.